Units matter! (a funny story)

[LaneBrain]

A quick funny story for all the folks who like the science aspect of the hobby.

I am a high school teacher (physics, chemistry, forensics, and robotics). I love thinking analytically about the science aspects of the hobby.
I recently bought some refractometer calibration fluid. Upon reading reviews after the fact, I saw some people thought it was inaccurate. So, I talked to the other chemistry teacher and we came up with an idea of making our own precise 35ppt solution and cross check the calibration fluid.
After doing some math, we came up with 35 nano grams of salt mixed into 1 liter of water. 35 nano grams?! This sounded *fishy*.
We rechecked the math a few times, validating our math each time.

Turns out ppt stands for parts per THOUSAND, not parts per trillion.

 

[thrillreefer]

Hah! Bringing a whole new dimension to the term “nano reef”

 

[highfive52]

Buy a Milwaukee. You'll be glad to ditch refrac

 

[coralfishreef]

The Milwaukee has a +/-2 PSU accuracy.

 

[JPags]

I use a pinpoint monitor. Use the refractometer as a backup reference

 

[highfive52]

The Milwaukee has a +/-2 PSU accuracy.

Funny story...those dang refracs always need calibrating, can't tell ya how many I've Been thru and fluid....so my theory is if I'm off anyway, give me the quick readout option. Lol. No joke. Lol. Mines spot on for now, matching against refrac. Lol. This hobby has turned me ocd. Oh and can't match against apex salinity probe 1.080. Junk.