Is 1 kg Really Equal to 9.8N on Earth's Surface?

destroying · 2008-10-05T03:12:38+00:00

Is it a unit? or sth?:confused:

Thread starter destroying
Start date Oct 4, 2008

AI Thread Summary

1 kg is equivalent to approximately 9.8 Newtons (N) when measured on the surface of the Earth, reflecting the gravitational force acting on that mass. This relationship highlights that while a kilogram is a unit of mass, a Newton is a unit of force. The statement "the weight of 1 kg on the surface of the Earth is about 9.8N" provides a more precise understanding of this concept. Misunderstandings about these units can lead to confusion, especially in educational contexts. Accurate terminology is essential for clear communication in physics.

Oct 4, 2008

destroying

Is it a unit? or sth?

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Oct 4, 2008

mgb_phys

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

It's 0.001 of a Newton
A Newton is the unit of force, 1 kg = about 9.8N

Oct 5, 2008

Lojzek

mgb_phys said:

1 kg = about 9.8N

I think many school teachers would be angry if you said that.

"the weight of 1 kg on the surface of the Earth is about 9.8N" is more accurate.

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