Topic 2: SI System & Base Units

SI System of Units

To maintain uniformity in measurements all over the world, a common system of units is required. The internationally accepted system of units is called the SI System (International System of Units).

The SI system is based on seven fundamental physical quantities and their corresponding base units. It is used universally in science, engineering, and commerce.

Need for SI System

  • To maintain uniform measurements worldwide
  • To avoid confusion caused by different unit systems
  • To ensure accuracy and consistency in scientific results

Fundamental Physical Quantities & Base Units

Each fundamental physical quantity has a definite base unit in the SI system.

Physical Quantity SI Unit Symbol
Length metre m
Mass kilogram kg
Time second s
Electric current ampere A
Temperature kelvin K
Amount of substance mole mol
Luminous intensity candela cd

Characteristics of SI Units

  • Well defined and universally accepted
  • Independent of place and time
  • Easy to reproduce

Derived Units

Derived units are obtained by combining base units using mathematical relations.

  • Area → m2
  • Volume → m3
  • Speed → m/s
  • Force → newton (N)
  • Density → kg/m3
Q1. SI system stands for:
A) Standard Indian System
B) Scientific International System
C) System International
D) International System of Units
Answer: D

Q2. SI unit of length is:
A) centimetre
B) metre
C) kilometre
D) millimetre
Answer: B

Q3. Which of the following is NOT a base quantity?
A) Mass
B) Length
C) Speed
D) Time
Answer: C

Q4. SI unit of temperature is:
A) degree Celsius
B) Fahrenheit
C) kelvin
D) joule
Answer: C

Q5. SI unit of electric current is:
A) volt
B) ampere
C) ohm
D) coulomb
Answer: B

One-Page Revision: SI System & Base Units

SI System

  • Internationally accepted system of units
  • Used in science, engineering, and technology

Base Quantities & Units

  • Length → metre (m)
  • Mass → kilogram (kg)
  • Time → second (s)
  • Electric current → ampere (A)
  • Temperature → kelvin (K)
  • Amount of substance → mole (mol)
  • Luminous intensity → candela (cd)

Derived Units

  • Speed → m/s
  • Area → m²
  • Volume → m³
  • Force → newton (N)

Important Points

  • SI units are independent of place and time
  • Base units form the foundation of all measurements

MHT-CET Tip

  • Direct questions are often asked from SI base units
  • Memorize quantity–unit–symbol combinations

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