Following our article on the new definition of the kilogram, Martin Vlietstra, one of our occasional contributors, provides some insight into how, in the 21st century, this standard is passed down to us, the general public.
Author: Martin Vlietstra
Leading us to the 18th century
Martin Vlietstra, one of our regular contributors, offers his thoughts on an early pronouncement by the newly-appointed Leader of the House of Commons.
The kilogram weight
The redefinition of the kilogram takes effect in two weeks time. To mark the event, Martin Vlietstra, one of our frequent contributors, looks at the “old” and “new” versions of this international standard.
How British metallurgists helped to make the first international kilogram
We reported a few weeks ago on the redefinition of the kilogram. In this article, Martin Vlietstra, one of our regular contributors, outlines Britain’s contribution to the creation of the prototype kilogram upon which the definition had relied since 1889.
Continue reading “How British metallurgists helped to make the first international kilogram”
2017 Laws of Cricket (or how not to specify quantities)
With the cricket season in full swing, Martin Vlietstra highlights some aspects of the laws of the game. Martin is on the active panel of qualified cricket umpires, and also comments frequently on articles posted on Metric Views.
Continue reading “2017 Laws of Cricket (or how not to specify quantities)”
A Dickensian surprise
Charles Dickens is enduringly popular for his memorable characters and his portrayal of the social evils of Victorian England. One of our regular readers, Martin Vlietstra, draws attention to an unexpected contribution he made to Britain’s long-running metrication debate.
Why ten and not twelve?
This is a question that often arises during discussions on the merits of the metric system. Martin Vlietstra, one of our regular readers, provides some thoughts on the matter, coincidentally on 10 October.
Will Scotland keep the pound avoirdupois as well as the pound sterling?
What impact would Scottish independence (if it were to happen) have on weights and measures? Martin Vlietstra supplies an answer.
Continue reading “Will Scotland keep the pound avoirdupois as well as the pound sterling?”
Metrication of the rail network
Last October Network Rail announced that they will be phasing out miles, chains and yards on the British Rail network in favour of metric units. This has already been done on most, if not all Britain’s metro and tram systems while the dimensions of railway vehicles have been measured in metric units since the 1970s. Why this change of heart?
(Article contributed by Martin Vlietstra)
Numeracy Counts
A recent report has stressed the importance of numeracy – and of raising the level of numeracy – both for people with learning difficulties and for people who are otherwise well qualified. In this article Martin Vlietstra suggests that fully adopting the metric system would help to raise standards – and blames the Europhobic media for obstructing progress.
Metric Views 