Mass v Weight, Earth Moon and Space.

In summary, the conversation discusses the difference between mass and weight and how they are affected by gravity. On Earth, a bathroom weigh scale would measure a mass of 100kg and a weight of 981N. On the Moon, the mass remains the same at 100kg, but the weight decreases to 167N due to the lower gravity. In space, where there is no gravitational pull, the bathroom weigh scale would measure a mass of 0kg and a weight of 0N. It is also noted that on a pivot balance, the apparent weight would always be the same as a 100kg standard mass, as long as there is some gravity present and a surface to measure on.
  • #1
evol1
4
0
We all know the confusion between Mass and Weight, from the language barrier. Would I be correct to say that:
On Earth
Bathroom weigh scales = 100kg. Mass therefore is 100kg. Weight = 981N

On the Moon
Bathroom weigh scales = 16.7kg. Mass is still 100kg. Weight = 167N

In Space, (away from any gravitational pull)
Bathroom Weigh scales = 0kg. Mass is still 100kg. Weight = 0N
 
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  • #2
Seems right enough to me. You could add that the apparent 'weight', measured on a pivot balance (see saw) would always be the same as a 100kg standard mass when there is even a hint of gravity and a planetary surface / platform to measure on.
 
  • #3
Sounds reasonable to me.
 

1. What is the difference between mass and weight?

Mass is the measure of the amount of matter an object contains, while weight is the measure of the gravitational force acting on an object. Mass is measured in kilograms (kg) and weight is measured in Newtons (N).

2. How does the mass of an object affect its weight?

The mass of an object directly affects its weight. The greater the mass, the greater the gravitational force acting on it, resulting in a higher weight. This relationship is described by the formula W = m x g, where W is weight, m is mass, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

3. How is weight affected by gravity on different celestial bodies?

The weight of an object is directly proportional to the gravity of the celestial body it is on. For example, on Earth, an object with a mass of 50kg would weigh 490N due to the gravity of 9.8m/s^2. On the moon, with a weaker gravity of 1.62m/s^2, the same object would only weigh 81N.

4. Does mass change in space?

No, mass does not change in space. Mass is an intrinsic property of an object and remains constant regardless of its location. However, weight can change in space due to the varying levels of gravity on different celestial bodies.

5. How is weightlessness achieved in space?

Weightlessness in space is achieved when an object experiences an apparent lack of weight due to the absence of a gravitational force acting on it. This can happen when an object is in free fall or in orbit around a larger celestial body. In these situations, the object is still affected by gravity, but its motion counteracts the gravitational force, resulting in a feeling of weightlessness.

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