Chambers’ Encyclopaedia

W. Wilson, in Chambers Encyclopaedia, New edn., Newnes, London, 1959, Vol. 11, p. 397. This article also presents the historical and philosophical background to quantum theory and wave mechanics in a readable way. 

The above standard metre of 39.36 inches would make the equatorial circumference o the earth measure 24.854 statute miles. Bessel s calculations, given in Chambers Encyclopaedia, give the ecmatorial circomference at 24.901, miles. IT this measurement be correct, the standard metre should be 39.371 inches. This difference, however, is so trifiing that it would not be appreciable for all practical purposes. 

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