What Are SI Units?

Nov 7, 2025, 11:19 IST

The International System of Units (SI Units), adopted in 1960, is the global standard for consistent measurement, replacing disparate systems.  It has 7 base si units and all other units are derived from them. 

SI Units
SI Units

SI Units: In our daily lives, we use measurements constantly, whether it is checking the temperature, weighing vegetables, or measuring the distance between two places. But imagine how confusing it would be if every country used different systems of measurement. 

So, to avoid such confusion and to bring uniformity across the world, scientists developed a common system known as the International System of Units, or SI Units. 

This system helps everyone, from students and engineers to researchers and manufacturers, to communicate measurements clearly and accurately. The SI system ensures that measurements mean the same thing everywhere, whether you are in India, the United States, or Japan. It plays an important role in science, technology, trade, and everyday life.

Check out: List of SI Units and Symbols

What do you mean by SI Unit?

SI Units stand for ‘Système International d'Unités’, which is French for International System of Units. It is the modern form of the metric system and is accepted as the global standard for measurement. This system was officially adopted in 1960 by the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM). SI Units provide a consistent way to measure physical quantities such as length, mass, time, temperature, electric current, amount of substance, and luminous intensity.

What are the 7 SI Units?

The SI system is built upon seven base units, each representing a fundamental physical quantity. All other units are derived from these base units only.

1. Metre (m) – Used to measure length or distance.

2. Kilogram (kg) – Used to measure mass.

3. Second (s) – Used to measure time.

4. Ampere (A) – Used to measure electric current.

5. Kelvin (K) – Used to measure temperature.

6. Mole (mol) – Used to measure the amount of substance.

7. Candela (cd) – Used to measure luminous intensity (brightness).

What are derived Units?

Apart from these seven base units, there are also derived units formed by combining base units. For example, speed is measured in metres per second (m/s), force in newtons (N), and energy in joules (J). These units help measure more complex physical quantities used in science and engineering.

Conclusion

SI Units are the foundation of all modern measurement systems. They make global communication, trade, and scientific work precise and consistent. Whether you are a student learning physics or a professional working in research or industry, understanding and using SI Units correctly is essential. 

Sneha Singh
Sneha Singh

Content Writer

    Sneha Singh is a US News Content Writer at Jagran Josh, covering major developments in international policies and global affairs. She holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Lucknow Campus. With over six months of experience as a Sub Editor at News24 Digital, Sneha brings sharp news judgment, SEO expertise and a passion for impactful storytelling.

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