The problem to develop new definitions for the terms “quantity”, “value of quantity”, “unit” in Russian and international metrology

Definitions of key metrological terms such as “quantity”, “value of quantity”, “measurement unit” are being revised as part of the work on the International Metrological dictionary by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures Joint Committee for Guides in Metrology (JCGM-WG2), as well as Task Group on Fundamental Concepts in Metrology (CCU-TG-FCM) of the Consultative Committee for Units (CCU). Russian experts are involved in this work. However Russian legal metrology has the definitions of these terms differ significantly from international dictionary. The aim of the work is to investigate the causes of the discrepancy and possible ways of developing this situation. The danger of narrowing and shifting the meaning of terms in comparison with other established sciences, such as physics and chemistry, is shown. Considerable attention is paid to the influence of formal requirements on the evolution of definitions of key metrological terms.

The paper analyzes the evolution of definitions of the discussed terms in Russian, starting with GOST 16263-70 “SSEUM. Metrology. Terms and definitions”, which gives the basis of the system of terms in Russian-language metrology, and finishing no modern definitions. It is shown, that they differ significantly from the definitions of the current third version of the International Vocabulary of Metrology. To find out the reasons for this difference, the mechanisms for developing new definitions in international documents are investigated. The requirements of unambiguity of the terms, machine readability, the principle of substitution, operationality, and others simultaneously imposed on the new definition system are discussed. Some negative consequences of the formal application of the rules of terminology construction, which cause dissatisfaction among a wide range of users, are shown. In conclusion, the article analyzes possible ways to develop a system of terms, one of which is related to the revision of the formal requirements for definitions of metrological terms, as well as shifting the focus to clarifying the objectives of the document and the end user of these definitions. It is concluded that it is necessary to preserve traditional definitions in Russian metrology until the end of the search for a new metrological concept and the development of definitions of key metrological terms that will be accepted by the entire metrological community.

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