Researchers from NIST and PTB are collaborating to improve the measurement of the kilogram, which was redefined using Planck’s constant in 2018. The team is working on two methods: the Kibble balance, which applies quantum mechanics, and the XRCD method, which counts atoms. They are using a precisely manufactured silicon sphere, considered one of the roundest objects on Earth, to test these methods. The Kibble balance faced challenges when measuring spherical objects for the first time, but researchers plan to continue experimentation to address technical difficulties and improve measurement accuracy. Successful collaboration may provide insights for advancing measurement science and achieving global consensus on the kilogram’s definition.
Keywords: Kilogram, Measurement, Quantum mechanics
