S. I. Units and Nomenclature in Soil Science [antikvár]

~ 111 - FOREWORD This short Bulletin is intended primarily to make all soil scientists in FAO and their coimterpart staff aware of the Systeme International d'Unités - a system of physical units rapidly becoming adopted all over the world - with particular reference to its application to the discipline of soil science. FAO soil scientists are working in many different countries each of which has its own national imits of measurement. However, it is often desirable to convey results obtained from one country to another and for this, a commonly understood system of units and nomenclature is necessary. Then, as it is essential to adopt an internationally acceptable system of units, it would be logical and sensible to adopt the S,I. which is already legally recognized in a great many, if not most, coimtries. Naturally, the adoption of a new system cannot take place instantaneously and it is not expected that the S.I. be strictly adhered to as from this moment. Nevertheless, every effort should be made to familiarize oneself with the system and to use it when feasible. In the early stages of the changeover, it may be advisable to include the better known traditional units in parenthesis for the benefit of the uninitiated. Edouard Saouma Director Land and Water Development Division