Abstract
If the definitions of the kilogram and the mole, based on exact values of the Planck and Avogadro constants, respectively, are accepted within the framework of the new SI, then the current definition of the dalton cannot be retained. Acceptance implies redefinition of the dalton exactly in terms of the kilogram. The redefined, exact dalton is useless in mass spectrometry, and hence, a new quantity for the carbon-12 reference mass would have to be established—against the principle of Ockham’s razor. In order to remove the roots of this awkward concept, the kilogram based on the Planck constant, and the mole, consisting of a particular number of entities equal to the inexactly determined numerical value of gram-to-dalton mass ratio, should be included in the new SI system. Some controversies related to the concept of mole have been also briefly outlined.
Highlights
If the definitions of the kilogram and the mole, based on exact values of the Planck and Avogadro constants, respectively, are accepted within the framework of the new SI, the current definition of the dalton cannot be retained
Leonard [2] has revealed that an independent definition of the kilogram and the mole, as proposed by new SI, creates a fundamental incompatibility in stoichiometry if the dalton is still defined as 1/12th of the carbon-12 mass
The current concept of the mole has been determined by two definitions: (1) The mass of the international prototype of kilogram (IPK) is greater than the mass of gram by the factor of 103
Summary
If the definitions of the kilogram and the mole, based on exact values of the Planck and Avogadro constants, respectively, are accepted within the framework of the new SI, the current definition of the dalton cannot be retained. Leonard [2] has revealed that an independent definition of the kilogram and the mole, as proposed by new SI, creates a fundamental incompatibility in stoichiometry if the dalton is still defined as 1/12th of the carbon-12 mass. Mi denotes the atomic or molecular mass of an entity expressed in Da. The ratio of masses of both reactants is equal to mA 1⁄4 aMA
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