metrologjia

Metrologjia, or metrology, is the science of measurement, encompassing the theory, concepts, and practical methods used to define, realize, preserve, and disseminate measurement standards. It covers the development and maintenance of measurement units, the calibration of instruments, the assessment of measurement uncertainty, and the traceability of results to internationally accepted references, principally the International System of Units (SI).

Metrology is commonly divided into three branches. Scientific metrology aims to establish and maintain fundamental standards and to advance measurement science. Industrial metrology focuses on calibration, quality control, and measurement in manufacturing and services to ensure product performance and conformity. Legal metrology governs measurements used in commerce, health, safety, and the environment, including weighing and measuring instruments and the verification of accuracy for public use.

Historically, metrology evolved from local measurement standards to a standardized, international framework. A major milestone was the adoption and ongoing refinement of the SI, with its base units redefined in 2019 in terms of fundamental constants, increasing stability and universality. The International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) coordinates international metrology, guided by the CIPM, and promotes global traceability through mechanisms such as the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) among national metrology institutes (NMIs) like NIST, PTB, and others.

Metrology underpins science, industry, healthcare, environmental monitoring, and commerce. Its practices—standardization, calibration, uncertainty evaluation, and traceability—enable reliable measurements, quality control, regulatory compliance, and scientific reproducibility.