Definition
Avoirdupois is a system of weights traditionally used in the United States and Great Britain for measuring non-precious metals and most agricultural products. The standard avoirdupois ounce is lighter compared to the troy ounce used for precious metals. The avoirdupois pound contains 16 ounces, and the system is widely recognized in trade and commerce for various bulk goods.
Examples
- Agricultural Products: Avoirdupois system is commonly applied to measure grains, produce, and meats.
- Non-Precious Metals: This weight system is used for iron, copper, and most base metals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the term “Avoirdupois”?
The term “avoirdupois” originates from Middle French, meaning “goods of weight” or “goods sold by weight.”
How does an avoirdupois ounce differ from a troy ounce?
An avoirdupois ounce (approximately 28.35 grams) is lighter than a troy ounce (approximately 31.10 grams), commonly used for weighing precious metals.
How many ounces are there in an avoirdupois pound?
There are 16 ounces in an avoirdupois pound.
What products are typically measured using the avoirdupois system?
The avoirdupois system is primarily used for measuring agricultural products and non-precious metals.
Is the avoirdupois system used internationally?
While the United States and Great Britain predominantly use the avoirdupois system, many other countries use the metric system.
Troy Weight
Troy weight is a system of units of mass customarily used for precious metals, such as gold and silver. A troy ounce is heavier than an avoirdupois ounce. In this system, there are 12 troy ounces in a troy pound.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- The Science of Measurement: A Historical Survey by Herbert Arthur Klein
- Weights and Measures by United States National Bureau of Standards
- The Weight of Things: Philosophy and the Avoirdupois System by Barbara Gail Montero
Fundamentals of Avoirdupois: Measurement Basics Quiz
### How many ounces are there in an avoirdupois pound?
- [x] 16 ounces
- [ ] 12 ounces
- [ ] 14 ounces
- [ ] 20 ounces
> **Explanation:** An avoirdupois pound consists of 16 ounces, which is different from a troy pound used for precious metals.
### Which system is traditionally used for weighing precious metals?
- [ ] Avoirdupois
- [x] Troy Weight
- [ ] Metric System
- [ ] Apothecaries' Weight
> **Explanation:** The troy weight system is traditionally used for weighing precious metals like gold and silver.
### How many grams approximately is an avoirdupois ounce?
- [ ] 32 grams
- [x] 28.35 grams
- [ ] 29.5 grams
- [ ] 31.1 grams
> **Explanation:** An avoirdupois ounce is approximately 28.35 grams.
### What does the term "avoirdupois" mean in Middle French?
- [ ] Precious weights
- [ ] Liquid measures
- [x] Goods of weight
- [ ] Units of mass
> **Explanation:** The term "avoirdupois" comes from Middle French meaning "goods of weight" or "goods sold by weight."
### What kind of products are typically measured using the avoirdupois system?
- [x] Agricultural products and non-precious metals
- [ ] Liquids and gases
- [ ] Pharmaceuticals
- [ ] Precious metals
> **Explanation:** Agricultural products and non-precious metals are typically measured using the avoirdupois system.
### Which ounce is heavier: avoirdupois or troy?
- [x] Troy ounce
- [ ] Avoirdupois ounce
- [ ] Both are the same
- [ ] None of the above
> **Explanation:** A troy ounce is heavier than an avoirdupois ounce.
### Is the avoirdupois system used globally?
- [ ] Yes, all countries use it.
- [x] No, many countries use the metric system.
- [ ] Only by scientists
- [ ] Only in commerce
> **Explanation:** While the avoirdupois system is widely used in the United States and Great Britain, many countries use the metric system.
### How many ounces make up a troy pound?
- [ ] 16 ounces
- [x] 12 ounces
- [ ] 14 ounces
- [ ] 10 ounces
> **Explanation:** A troy pound is made up of 12 troy ounces.
### Which countries predominantly use the avoirdupois system?
- [x] United States and Great Britain
- [ ] Japan and China
- [ ] Germany and France
- [ ] Australia and India
> **Explanation:** The United States and Great Britain predominantly use the avoirdupois system.
### An avoirdupois ounce is approximately how many grams?
- [ ] 31.1 grams
- [ ] 32.5 grams
- [x] 28.35 grams
- [ ] 30.2 grams
> **Explanation:** An avoirdupois ounce is approximately 28.35 grams.
Thank you for diving into the fascinating world of the avoirdupois system. Every unit of measure holds its unique place in history and modern commerce!
