What is the importance of the IPK? What might happen if it did not exist?

See detailed explanation.

Explanation:

Hello,

In this case, since the International Prototype of the Kilogram (IPK) is an object  made of a platinum-iridium alloy that was used to define the magnitude of the mass of the kilogram as it weights 2.2 pounds or approximately 1 kg, yet it was replaced by a new definition of the kilogram based on physical constants. In such a way, it is important because it was the base for the current understanding of what a kilogram is and its relationship with other mass measurements.

Thus, if would not have existed, we were not be able to design and use balances or mass-measuring equipment in order to provide a reliable measure of the real mass of an object.

Best regards.

r just means there's a number of carbon in teh chain. for example rcooh means that after x number of carbon, the chain ends with cooh.

explanation:

in cartography, a contour line (often just called a "contour") joins points of equal elevation (height) above a given level, such as mean sea level. a contour map is a map illustrated with contour lines, for example a topographic map, which thus shows valleys and hills, and the steepness or gentleness of slopes.

explanation: