The Avoirdupois system is a weight measurement system customarily used for agricultural products and nonprecious metals. Integral to commerce and daily life, the Avoirdupois system is distinct from other systems like Troy Weight. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the Avoirdupois system, its units, historical context, and applications.
A Comprehensive Guide to the Avoirdupois System
Origin and Definition
The term “Avoirdupois” comes from the Old French phrase “aveir de pois,” meaning “goods of weight.” The Avoirdupois system is based on a pound of 16 ounces, where each ounce consists of 437.5 grains.
Units of Measurement
The Avoirdupois Ounce and Pound
- Avoirdupois Ounce: Weighs 28.3495 grams. There are 16 ounces in an Avoirdupois pound.
- Avoirdupois Pound: Weighs 453.59237 grams. This pound is used widely in the United States for nearly all commodities except precious metals, gemstones, and medicines.
Special Considerations
- The Avoirdupois ounce is lighter than the Troy ounce (used for precious metals), which weighs approximately 31.1035 grams.
- In comparison, Troy Weight uses a pound of 12 ounces, making its pound and ounce heavier than those in the Avoirdupois system.
Historical Context
The Avoirdupois system has been in use since the late Middle Ages. Its adoption and standardization were pivotal for trade and commerce, particularly in agricultural and industrial sectors.
Applicability in Contemporary Measurements
The Avoirdupois system remains prevalent in many English-speaking countries, notably the United States, for the following:
- Agriculture: Used extensively for weighing commodities like grain, meat, and other produce.
- Retail & Commerce: Applied for general merchandise excluding precious metals and drugs.
Comparisons with Related Systems
Troy Weight
- Troy Pound: Composed of 12 Troy ounces.
- Troy Ounce: Heavier than the Avoirdupois ounce, essential for pricing precious metals.
Metric System
- Often used globally but less frequently in agriculture and commodity markets within the U.S.
- 1 kilogram = approximately 2.20462 Avoirdupois pounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an Avoirdupois pound and a Troy pound?
An Avoirdupois pound consists of 16 ounces, while a Troy pound contains 12 ounces. Their usage is field-specific, with the Troy system preferred for precious metals.
Why is the Avoirdupois system still in use?
Its continued usage is due to its historical significance and widespread adoption in various sectors, particularly agriculture and retail in certain countries like the United States.
Can Avoirdupois be converted to Metric units?
Yes, it is convertible. For instance, 1 Avoirdupois pound equals approximately 453.59237 grams.
References
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). “Units of Weight and Measure—International and U.S. Customary.”
- The International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM). “The Avoirdupois Weighing System.”
- “Weights and Measures in the Middle Ages,” Historical Texts on Weighing Systems.
Summary
The Avoirdupois system is a crucial part of our weighing systems, particularly in agriculture and retail. Understanding its units, history, and applications helps in comprehending its significance and differentiation from other systems like Troy Weight.
By delving into its origins, uses, and comparisons, users can appreciate why the Avoirdupois system persists in modern use and its pivotal role in various everyday applications.
