The meter became the fundamental unit of length in the metric system from "summary" of The Measure of All Things by Ken Alder
The meter emerged as the central unit of measurement in the metric system due to the efforts of two French astronomers, Delambre and Mechain. Their mission was to accurately measure the distance from the North Pole to the Equator in order to establish the standard unit of length. This monumental task took them seven years to complete, during which they encountered numerous challenges and setbacks. Delambre and Mechain embarked on their journey in opposite directions, each using the latest scientific instruments to measure the meridian arc. They encountered harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain, and unreliable equipment, which made their task even more daunting. Despite these obstacles, they persevered in their quest for precision and accuracy. The astronomers meticulously recorded their measurements and calculations, often repeating them multiple times to ensure consistency. They also collaborated with other scientists and mathematicians to verify their findings and eliminate any e...
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