A weighing machine is used to measure mass.
Weighing machines, also known as scales, balances, mass scales, mass balances, massometers, or weight balances, are designed to determine the mass or weight of an object. While the terms "mass" and "weight" are often used interchangeably, they represent different concepts in physics. Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object, while weight is the force exerted on that object due to gravity.
Here's a breakdown to clarify the difference and how weighing machines relate:
- Mass: Measured in kilograms (kg) or grams (g). A weighing machine designed to measure mass ideally does so independent of gravitational forces.
- Weight: Measured in Newtons (N). Weight is dependent on the local gravitational field.
While some weighing machines indicate weight (e.g., bathroom scales), they are often calibrated to display a mass reading, assuming a standard gravitational acceleration. High-precision mass measurements, especially in scientific and industrial settings, use balances that minimize the effects of gravity to accurately determine mass. Therefore, the key function of a weighing machine is still measuring mass.
