Correct spacing in expressing quantities using SI units

Filed on: January 12, 2010 | Written by Yateendra Joshi | 2 comments

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Expressing quantities using SI units requires you not only to use the correct symbols but also to space them correctly. Although this appears straightforward, correct expression is governed by several conventions, some of which are explored in this post. Expressions such as 7 g, 12 mm, and 39 C are common enough in describing methods and reporting the results of experiments. Each of the three examples in the above sentence has three parts, namely, the number or value (7, 12, and 39), the unit (g, for grams; mm, for millimetres; and C for derees Celsius), and the space that separates the value and the unit. However, even in such a simple expression as 39 C, you should note that the space is used between the number and the degree symbol () and not between the degree symbol and the symbol C. Here are a few more examples of good practice. Negative values Do not insert a space between the minus sign and the number: in expressing below-zero temperatures for example, write 10 C. Percentages Do not insert a space between the number and the percent symbol: 15%, not 15 %. Repeat the symbol while expressing a range: 20%25%, and not 2025%. Geographic coordinates Do not insert a space between the number and the degree symbol, the symbol for minutes, and the symbol for seconds. Set everything close up, but insert a space before S, N, W, and E: 351524 N, 231020 E. Please note that the latitude (N or S) is always given first. Currency symbols Do not insert a space between a currency symbol and the number: $25 or 20. However, separate currency abbreviations and the number with one space: USD 25 or GBP 20. The non-breaking space is a useful device: it ensures that the number and the symbol always move together with the space that separates them. In Word for Windows, instead of hitting the spacebar, combine it with Shift and Control. In other words, press the shift key and the control key and, while both are pressed, hit the space bar. This inserts a non-breaking space. Alternatively, use the ASCII code: with Num Lock on, press the Alt key and type the following from the numerical keypad while the Alt key is still pressed: 0160. ["Publish and prosper" is a series of posts about tips for researchers whose first language is not English but who submit papers to journals published in English. The series touches upon not only writing (spelling, grammar, punctuation, usage, and style) but everything else relevant to publishing research papers that journal editors wish their authors knew.]