metrology in 17th century England
Forwarded to HISTNEUR-L for Larry Kruger (original posting bounced due to e-mail address mismatch). --RJ --- Begin Forwarded Message --- Date: Wed, 15 Jan 2003 16:51:33 -0800 To: HISTNEUR-L@library.ucla.edu From: Lawrence Kruger [lkruger@ucla.edu] Subject: metrology in 17th century England My struggle with metrics in Tyson's monograph has reached the point where I can pose the question quite specifically. Tyson gives the weight of the 'porpess' as 96 l. aver du pois and later of its brain as XVI 1/2, without mentioning units. The weight standard established by Elizabeth's 1587 proclamation is easily understood and indeed a specimen of Phocaena would weigh about 100 pounds, but the brain would probably weigh closer to ~300 grams (depending on what is included, etc.) . Thus perhaps my question concerns the use of Roman numerals and whether it was used for volume. Who might we know with such expertise? Any clues would be most appreciated. Thanks, Larry -------------------------------- Lawrence Kruger Professor of Neurobiology (Emeritus) UCLA School of Medicine 10833 Le Conte Avenue, CHS 73-323 Los Angeles, CA 90095 lkruger@ucla.edu 310-825-9572 (voice) 310-825-2224 (FAX) --- End Forwarded Message ---