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New Kilogram definition
Why is it in news?
- With the definition of the ‘kilogram’ getting a global, technical makeover, textbooks — from those used in schools to ones recommended by engineering colleges in India — are set to undergo an update.
More in news
- Definition on the basis of physics constants:
- The measures are all now defined on the basis of unchanging universal, physics constants.
- The kilogram now hinges on the definition of the Planck Constant, a constant of nature that relates to how matter releases energy.
- CSIR-NPL:
- It is India’s official reference keeper of units of measurements.
- It released a set of recommendations requiring that school textbooks, engineering-education books, and course curriculum update the definition of the kilogram.
- Indigenous Kibble Balance:
- The institute is also in the process of making its own ‘Kibble Balance’, a device that was used to measure the Planck Constant and thereby reboot the kilogram.
- A Kibble Balance capable of measuring at least a kilogram takes about Rs. 50 crore to manufacture.
- No effect on everyday measurements:
- An updated kilogram doesn’t mean that weights everywhere will be thrown off balance.
- For everyday measurements, consumers wanting to calibrate their instruments — whether it’s for high-precision drug manufacturing or retail weighing machines — will continue doing it the same way.
Source
The Hindu