Writing quantities with units
Unlike pure mathematics, we often encounter units alongside quantities in natural sciences such as chemistry, physics, and engineering. It’s essential to distinguish units from variables. Consider this example: let’s create a formula that multiplies the speed s of one meter per second by the factor m. At first glance, it might seem straightforward like this:
\( m \cdot s = m \cdot 1 m s^{-1} \)
The LaTeX standard output would be as follows:
Figure 11.9 – A bad example of printing variables and units
What do you think about this? Units and variables seem identical. Imagine multiplying both sides of the equation by s or dividing by m... it becomes pretty perplexing. Furthermore, our space between 1 and m has been lost.
To adhere to common standards in writing, we often require the following:
- Upright presentation of units to differentiate them from italicized math variables
- A small space...
