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nholthaus / units

a compile-time, header-only, dimensional analysis and unit conversion library built on c++14 with no dependencies.
http://nholthaus.github.io/units/
MIT License
947 stars 135 forks source link

Inconsistent use of square in names #213

Closed JohelEGP closed 5 years ago

JohelEGP commented 5 years ago

See meters_per_second_squared vs pounds_per_square_inch. There are probably more examples out there in the headers. I don't remember if the BIMP had anything to say about it in their brochure or has an official standing about it somewhere. Consistency would be a boon to those using these long-named units.

nholthaus commented 5 years ago

pounds per square inch (psi) is the canonical name. Metric units should be consistent within themselves, and Imperial units within themselves (in as much as they were ever consistent).

Although mathematically inches squared and square inches are the same, the common meaning in the US is that 12 inches squared refers to a square 12" on a side, with a volume of 144 square inches. Hence the metric system.

JohelEGP commented 5 years ago

I see, thank you. Then, if there are no inconsistencies, please close this issue.