Final answer:
The metric system is preferred in the scientific community due to its simplicity and the ease of conversion with base ten units, such as meters, kilograms, and seconds. The International System of Units (SI), which is based on the metric system, is the accepted standard worldwide, except for the United States which still uses the English system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The metric system is favored in scientific communities largely due to its simplicity and uniformity, using base ten for easier unit conversions. In countries outside the United States, the metric system is the standard system of measurement, which includes units such as meters for length, kilograms for mass, and seconds for time—these remain consistent across scientific disciplines. The International System of Units (SI) is an extension of the metric system that provides a common language for scientists worldwide, facilitating clear communication and collaboration. The United States' hesitation to fully adopt the metric system dates back to the late 18th century when Thomas Jefferson advocated for its use. Despite the metric system's widespread adoption in the rest of the world, the US still relies largely on the English system of measurement, causing a disconnect in scientific and technical communication. Ultimately, the metric system's design, with each unit increasing by a factor of ten, makes it the preferred choice in scientific work for its ease of use and international uniformity. This simplicity is why scientists and mathematicians globally have agreed upon the SI units as the foundation of scientific measurement.