Auteur: Rechard DoddEditeur : Cambridge pages:245 Format :pdf
A multitude of measurement units exist within astronomy, some of
which are unique to the subject, causing discrepancies that are particularly apparent
when astronomers collaborate with researchers from other disciplines in science
and engineering. The International System of Units (SI) is based on seven
fundamental units from which other units may be derived, but many astronomers
are reluctant to drop their old and familiar systems. This handbook
demonstrates the ease with which transformations from old units to SI units may
be made. Using worked examples, the author argues that astronomers would
benefit greatly if the reporting of astronomical research and the sharing of
data were standardized to SI units. Each chapter reviews a different SI base
unit, clarifying the connection between these units and those currently
favoured by astronomers. This is an essential reference for all researchers in
astronomy and astrophysics, and will also appeal to advanced students.