what are the best units for a scientist to measure the distance between cities?

3 hours ago 2
Nature

The best unit for a scientist to measure the distance between cities is the kilometer (km). Kilometers are part of the International System of Units (SI) and are widely used to express large distances such as those between cities because one kilometer equals 1,000 meters, making it practical and manageable for such measurements

. In some countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, miles are also used, but kilometers remain the preferred scientific and international standard unit for measuring distances on land

. In summary:

  • Kilometers (km) are the standard and most appropriate unit for measuring distances between cities.
  • One kilometer equals 1,000 meters.
  • Miles may be used in specific countries but are less common in scientific contexts for this purpose.

This makes kilometers the best choice for scientists measuring intercity distances