Undergrad Error on a weighing scale due to wrong size

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When weighing a rigid object that overhangs a scale's tray, the measurement error is generally minimal, often estimated at zero unless the object is unevenly distributed or tilting the pan. The shape of the object can affect the measurement; for example, rod-shaped items can be positioned to minimize overhang. Conducting tests by weighing items with and without overhang can help assess precision and identify any variations. It's recommended to repeat measurements multiple times for accuracy. Overall, experimenting with different placements and shapes can provide insights into potential errors in weighing.
cloa513
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If you have say a 15 centimetre long piece of rigid plastic and the weighing scale's tray is only 10 centimetres, what is an estimate of the error that introduces in the measurement assuming the weight is still within normal parameters for the weighing scale. I was wondering what the approximate error in general for moderately rigid materials? It happens now and again at work.
 
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I would expect zero, unless the overhanging part is resting on something or the weight distribution is so uneven it's tilting the pan.

What shape are the things you weigh? Can you hold them vertical somehow so they are fully within the pan? For example, if they are rod-shaped they could be placed horizontally across the top of a cup and then nearly-vertically in it. Then you could compare the measured weights with and without an overhang as a test. Remember to repeat each measurement a few times (take everything off the scale and put it back on) to check your precision.
 
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Shape of things- plates.
 
Hard for you to test, then. The answer is still zero.
 
cloa513 said:
I was wondering what the approximate error in general for moderately rigid materials?
Experiment with a test item, offset and hanging over the pan in different directions. Then break it up and weigh it in the pan. How much variation do you see?
 

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