The rationalization of electrical theory and units

The 1935 meeting of the International Electrotechnical Commission recommended the adoption of the M.K.S.-Giorgi system of electrical units but left open the question of rationalization. Much recently published work on electromagnetic theory and on microwave engineering has employed a rationalized system of equations, and it is suggested that the time is ripe for reconsideration of the matter. In order to stimulate such reconsideration the effects and merits of rationalization are surveyed. A distinction is made between rationalization of theory and rationalization of units. Fundamentally, the theory is first rationalized, and this results in a change in the sizes of certain electrical units, which are then conveniently referred to as rationalized units. In the M.K.S.-Giorgi system of units almost all the practical electrical units are retained unchanged, and this system is given special attention.