Which unit measures weight in the apothecary system?

Which unit measures weight in the apothecary system?

• A. Gram
• B. Ounce
• C. Pound
• D. Grain

Answer: (D)

In the apothecary system, weight is measured in grains. The grain is the base unit, with larger apothecary units built from it (for example, the ounce and pound are defined as multiples of grains: 1 ounce apothecary = 480 grains, 1 pound apothecary = 12 ounces = 5760 grains). The gram belongs to the metric system, and the ounce or pound used here align with the avoirdupois system rather than the apothecary system. Historically, medicines were commonly prescribed by grains, so this unit is the characteristic weight measure of the apothecary system. A practical note: 1 grain is about 0.0648 grams.

In the apothecary system, weight is measured in grains. The grain is the base unit, with larger apothecary units built from it (for example, the ounce and pound are defined as multiples of grains: 1 ounce apothecary = 480 grains, 1 pound apothecary = 12 ounces = 5760 grains). The gram belongs to the metric system, and the ounce or pound used here align with the avoirdupois system rather than the apothecary system. Historically, medicines were commonly prescribed by grains, so this unit is the characteristic weight measure of the apothecary system. A practical note: 1 grain is about 0.0648 grams.