The Importance Of The Metric System

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The metric system, also known as the International System of Units, is a universal, decimal measuring system which uses meters, grams, and liters to measure length, weight or mass, and volume. Nearly all other countries have adopted the metric system and it is used as the standard unit used in science due to how widespread it is. It is also very important in businesses dealing with trade. Despite this, the United States is the only industrialized country to still not use it as its main system of measurement. With the metric system being the most common system of measurement and how involved the U.S. is with other countries, it is unclear why the U.S. does not place more importance in schools for learning the metric system. According to the …show more content…

It also avoids confusing multi-functional terms that are used in the English system, such as the use of ounces to measure both weight and volume. According to the NIST, “Currently, huge blocks of time are spent learning the cumbersome inch-pound measurements, including learning to manipulate inch pound fractions and learning to make tedious conversions between metric and inch-pound units. Much of this time can be redirected toward more worthwhile endeavors.” Most students wouldn’t have trouble with applying and understanding the metric system in their daily lives if they were taught it from a young age. If they are taught the English system alongside that then they would be able to understand others that were not taught the metric system, the government would save money, and in consonance with the NIST, the future leaders of this country would be properly equipped with basic, but necessary, mechanisms for science, business, trade, and international communication which would most likely positively benefit both the U.S. and the

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