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1. This is the Kilogram. Also called Le Grand K, or the Big K.
2. It’s a cylinder of platinum and iridium that’s about the size of your fist.
3. It's stored underneath three bell jars in a special vault at the International Bureau of Weights and Measures in Paris
4. It doesn't just define the kilogram, it is the kilogram. Even if you removed a third of its mass, it would still weigh exactly one kilogram.
5. Every country has its own 'sister kilograms', which get brought to Paris for comparison with the original.
6. These comparisons have revealed that the kilogram has been gaining and losing weight, possibly as a result of handling.
7. The difference in measurements amounts to 0.05 milligrams, less than the mass of a human eyebrow hair.
8. From a scientific perspective, even this is not accurate enough.
9. So a new definition will be on the way soon, relating the kilogram to natural constants such as Avogadro's Number...
10. ...or the fundamental charge of an electron.
11. Which means the Grand K may one day be locked away for good.
12. But let's not let that spoil its birthday.
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