Question about Experimentally Measuring Mass

In summary, the experiment required measuring the mass of a substance (NaCl) in its container before measuring the mass of just the container. This is because if the NaCl is transferred to another container, the second measurement would include the mass of any residue left behind. By measuring in this order, the difference in masses would accurately represent the amount of NaCl used. If the NaCl is to be kept in the container, the measurements would need to be done in reverse.
  • #1
jtang03
1
0
In an experiment that I conducted, I was instructed to measure the mass of a substance (NaCl) in it's container BEFORE measuring the mass of just the container.

Is there a logical reason behind doing it in this order rather than measuring the mass of the container FIRST AND THEN measuring the mass of the container + NaCl?
 
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  • #2
The only circumstance in which you can do is is if you then to transfer the NaCl to some other container.
When you make the second measurement you are not only measuring the mass of the container you are including the mass of any residue left behind.

That way your difference of masses will truly be the amount of NACl used.

If you were going to keep the NaCl in the container you would have to do the measurement the other way round.

go well
 

1. How do you measure mass in an experiment?

In an experiment, mass can be measured using a balance or scale. The object to be measured is placed on one side of the balance, and weights are added to the other side until the two sides are balanced. The total weight of the added weights is the mass of the object.

2. What units are used to measure mass in experiments?

Mass is typically measured in grams (g) or kilograms (kg) in experiments. These units are part of the metric system and are often preferred for their simplicity and consistency.

3. How accurate are measurements of mass in experiments?

The accuracy of mass measurements in experiments depends on the precision of the equipment used. Digital scales and balances are more accurate than traditional scales, with precision up to 0.001g. However, the accuracy can also be affected by external factors such as air currents or temperature changes in the environment.

4. Can mass be measured in different states of matter?

Yes, mass can be measured in all states of matter - solid, liquid, and gas. However, the method of measurement may vary. For example, solids and liquids can be measured using a balance or scale, while gases are often measured by trapping them in a container and then weighing the container.

5. How do you account for the mass of the container when measuring the mass of an object?

When measuring the mass of an object, the mass of the container it is in must also be taken into account. This can be done by weighing the container empty and then subtracting that mass from the total mass measured with the object inside. Alternatively, some scales have a tare function that automatically subtracts the mass of the container.

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