Understanding the Kilogram Standards

The video explores the history and significance of the original kilogram standards, including the Treaty of the Meter and the US's involvement in the metric system. It highlights the process of viewing these standards and discusses their properties, value, and the challenges faced with their reliability. The video concludes with the upcoming redefinition of the kilogram, moving away from a physical object to a more stable definition.

What was the purpose of the Treaty of the Meter?

• To create a global currency system

• To lay the foundation for the metric system

• To define international trade laws

• To establish a universal time standard

Which two original kilogram standards were given to the United States?

• K1 and K2

• K4 and K20

• K10 and K30

• K5 and K15

How are common units like feet and gallons defined in the U.S.?

• In terms of imperial units

• In terms of ancient Roman units

• In terms of astronomical units

• In terms of metric units

What is the composition of the original kilogram mass standard, K20?

• 80% gold and 20% silver

• 90% platinum and 10% iridium

• 70% copper and 30% zinc

• 100% platinum

Why is it important for the kilogram prototypes to have a smooth finish?

• To make them more visually appealing

• To reduce the chance of contamination

• To increase their weight

• To make them easier to transport

What is the main reason for transferring the kilogram definition to stainless steel standards?

• Stainless steel is cheaper

• Stainless steel is more durable

• Stainless steel is more accurate

• Differences in density require it

What factor is the biggest contributor to air density affecting the mass comparator?

• Humidity

• Wind speed

• Pressure

• Temperature

How are the kilogram prototypes transported to Paris for weigh-ins?

• By transporting them in a special vehicle

• By sending them through a courier service

• By hand-carrying them in a secure bag

• By shipping them in a cargo plane

What was discovered about the International prototype kilogram during weigh-ins?

• It was melting

• It remained unchanged

• It was gaining mass

• It was losing mass

Why was the kilogram redefined in 2018?

• To make it lighter

• To make it heavier

• To eliminate reliance on a physical object

• To improve its accuracy