Final answer:
The SI system is based on multiples of ten, with seven basic units upon which all other units are derived. These units simplify conversions and are essential in fields such as chemistry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The value we use to base the multiples of the SI system is ten. This system of measurement is standardized and all metric units are based on this easily manageable base, making conversions between units very simple. The SI system, also known as the International System of Units, was adopted internationally in 1960, and it is the modern form of the metric system.
There are seven basic units in the SI system, which are: the meter (m) for distance, the kilogram (kg) for mass, the second (s) for time, the ampere (A) for electric current, the kelvin (K) for temperature, the mole (mol) for the amount of substance, and the candela (cd) for luminous intensity. Out of these, five of the units are commonly used in chemistry. Metric prefixes, which derive from Latin or Greek, are applied to create multiples and submultiples of these units, facilitating a wide range of measurements.
Derived units in the SI system are created by combining the base units. For example, volume can be expressed in cubic meters (m³), which is a unit derived from the meter. Density can be calculated using the units of mass (kilograms) and volume (cubic meters).