Question: The primary system of measurement in the United States is the customary system. Among the units of measurement in the customary system are inches, feet, and quarts. The United States is among the few major industrial countries that do not use the metric system exclusively. Among the units of measurement in the metric system are centimeters, meters, and liters. The metric system is based on a decimal system-like U.S. currency. Some U.S. industries have converted to the metric system. Others specify measurements in both customary and metric systems. To conduct international business, the U.S. has recognized the need to convert customary units to the metric system. For example, beverages are routinely packaged in liter containers. Although the U.S. is a global business leader, it has had to adjust to meet the needs of the rest of the world.
Critical Thinking 1. Look at five food packages. List the weights and measures indicated.
2. List arguments both for and against a proposal to convert all U.S. weights and measures to the metric system.