merenje

Merenje is the act or process of determining the magnitude of a quantity by comparing it with a standard unit. In many South Slavic languages the term refers to measurement in general and is a central concept in metrology, the science of measurement. A measurement result typically consists of a numeric value, a unit, and an uncertainty it carries; proper reporting also notes the conditions of measurement and traceability to reference standards.

Units and standards are the foundation of merenje. Measurements rely on units defined by systems such as the International System of Units (SI). Instruments or methods convert a physical quantity into a readable or computable signal. Calibration aligns an instrument with reference standards to ensure accuracy and comparability of results.

The measurement process generally includes defining what is being measured, choosing an appropriate instrument, taking readings, and calculating a result. Measurements can be direct or indirect, and may be qualitative or quantitative. They can also be obtained through comparison, inference, or statistical methods, depending on the quantity and precision required.

Uncertainty and error are inherent aspects of merenje. Sources include instrument resolution, environmental conditions, and methodological limitations. Uncertainty is estimated and reported, and traceability ensures that results can be linked back to SI units through a documented calibration chain.

Historically, metrology has evolved from ancient measurement systems to the modern, standardized framework of SI. Merenje is indispensable across science, engineering, manufacturing, medicine, surveying, and environmental monitoring, where reliable quantitative data are essential for analysis, quality control, and decision-making.