Suggestions for the use of SI units in magnetism

Before 1980 the Gaussian cgs (cm-gm-s) system of units provided the standard for magnetism in the area of geophysics. Although the cgs system was not without its own special and formidable set of problems, geophysicists had come to terms with it to the extent that the published literature contains little ambiguity about the meaning of a magnetic measurement expressed in cgs units. At about that time, following recommendations of various international committees, some journals began suggesting, and then requiring, that SI (Systeme Internationale) units be used instead. There are significant advantages to SI units, and it behooves us to accept the conversion and make it work. Most of the geophysical community has already done so.