1.3.2 English and Metric Measurements

1.3.2 English and Metric Measurements

1. Why is the metric system used instead of the English system, and vice versa, in various parts of the world?

The Metric system is easier to manipulate because all conversions are based on multiples of ten. The English system is easier to use when there are no measuring tools around because the English system is based on the common lengths of body parts. For example, the yard is based on the average length of a human arm.

2. When you look at a drawing, how do you know if you are looking at inch or millimeter values? Why is it important for an engineer to know this piece of information?

You look at the unit to see if the measurements say inches or mm. It is very important for engineers to know this because mixing up units can result is vastly difference measurements and designs.

3. Why would you have to know how to convert measurements when looking at working drawing?

You have to know the conversion formula between the unit on the drawing and the unit you want to convert it to.