Redefining the kilogram
Monday, February 20, 2012 - 05:30
in Physics & Chemistry
New research, published by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), takes a significant step towards changing the international definition of the kilogram which is currently based on a lump of platinum-iridium kept in Paris. NPL has produced technology capable of accurate measurements of Planck's constant, the final piece of the puzzle in moving from a physical object to a kilogram based on fundamental constants of nature. The techniques are described in a paper published in Metrologia on the 20th February.