Is Mass Measured in Kilograms or Grams?

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    F=ma Mass Measuring
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the measurement of mass, specifically whether it is measured in kilograms or grams, and the implications of unit compatibility in physics equations such as m=F/a. The scope includes conceptual clarification and technical explanation related to units of measurement in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that either kilograms or grams can be used to measure mass, but the kilogram is the standard in the scientific community.
  • One participant mentions the MKS system, which includes the meter, kilogram, and second, indicating that using kilograms aligns with standard force measurements in Newtons and acceleration in meters per second squared.
  • Another participant states that the SI unit for mass is the kilogram, equating it to 10^3 grams, while also questioning if "g" was intended to refer to acceleration due to gravity.
  • A repeated inquiry about the measurement of mass in kg or g emphasizes the need for compatible units in calculations involving force and acceleration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the kilogram is the standard unit for mass in scientific contexts, but there is some discussion about the use of grams and the importance of unit compatibility in calculations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the implications of using different units and the necessity for compatible units in calculations, which may depend on the specific context of the problem.

Awsom Guy
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m=F/a
then is mass measured in kg or g.
Thanks
 
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Either will do but today's standard is the kilogram.

The scientific world uses the MKS system - metre, kilogram, second.

If you use the kilogram the force is measured in Newtons and the acceleration in metres per (second) 2
 
SI unit for mass is kilogram (kg), which is the same as 103 grams

1kg = 103 g.


I hope you didn't mean g as in acceleration due to gravity.
 
Thanks guys
 
Awsom Guy said:
m=F/a
then is mass measured in kg or g.
Thanks

You need compatable units. If force is given in Newtons, acceleration should usually be given in meters per second squared. With these units of force and acceleration the value you get for the mass is in kilograms.
 

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