Since the definition of the
kilogram was based on an object, the mass of a
kilogram was not strictly constant. To address
this problem, several approaches were pursued to
redefine the kilogram. The two main approaches
were the Kibble balance and the Avogadro
Project. The Kibble balance uses electromagnetic
force (which can be very accurately measured) to
determine the weight of the object. Then, with
the help of a gravimeter to accurately measure
the local gravitational acceleration, the mass
of the object can be determined with very high
accuracy
[11].
Kibble balance at the National Institute
of Standards and Technology[11].
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The Avogadro Project takes an independent
approach.
Since the
kilogram and the number of silicon atoms in
one mole are related by the molar mass of
silicon and Avogadro's number, the kilogram
can be determined by the mass of a known number
of silicon atoms. Using the known spacing of
atoms in a silicon lattice, the volume of a
silicon sphere can be measured to determine the
number of atoms in that sphere. With high enough
accuracy in measuring the volume of the silicon
sphere and the spacing of the atoms in the
silicon lattice, the kilogram can be defined
with great accuracy
[12].
Achim Leistner of the Avogadro Project
holds a 1 kg silicon sphere that is one
of the roundest objects on Earth[12].
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However different they are, these approaches are
nonetheless complementary. With two independent
measurements of the same quantity, we can be
sure about the theory behind each approach. The
two methods eventually agreed to seven decimal
places
[13], confirming each other's
accuracy. The next year, the kilogram was
redefined in terms of fundamental constants.