Kilogram Newtons (Extremely Easy Question)

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the conversion of mass and force, specifically addressing the calculation of force for a 5 kg load. The correct force is determined using the formula w = mg, resulting in approximately 49 Newtons when applying the gravitational constant (9.8 m/s²). It distinguishes between kilogram mass (kgm) and kilogram force (kgf), noting that 1 kgf equals 9.80665 N. The term "kgN" is identified as non-standard and not recognized as a unit of measurement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion (w = mg)
  • Familiarity with gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²)
  • Knowledge of unit conversions between kilogram-force (kgf) and Newtons (N)
  • Basic concepts of mass versus force in physics
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  • Research the differences between kilogram mass (kgm) and kilogram force (kgf)
  • Learn about the gravitational constant and its applications in physics
  • Explore unit conversion techniques between different force measurements
  • Study the implications of using non-standard units in scientific calculations
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Students of physics, educators teaching force and mass concepts, and professionals in engineering or physical sciences who require a clear understanding of force calculations and unit conversions.

kape
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Very sorry, but I just don't know..

If there is a 5kg load on an object, let's say a book on a table.. what is it's force in kgN? Is it 5kg x 9.8?!
 
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Yes, the weight of a 5kg mass is about 5*9.8 = 49 Newtons.
 
maybe he is getting at the difference between kgm and kgf (kilogram mass and kilogram force)?
 
Good point.

If by "5 Kg load" you mean the weight of an object whose mass is 5 Kg, then find the force via w = mg. The load equals (approximately) 5*9.8 = 49 N as I stated above.

On the other had, if by "5 Kg load" you really meant a load (force) of 5 kgf (Kilogram-force, a unit of force, not mass), then convert to standard (SI) units of force (Newtons) using the definition of 1 kgf = 9.80665 N.

Of course, for many purposes either one is close enough.

Note: kgN is not a unit (that I am aware of). Mass is measured in kg (also called kgm for kilogram-mass); force is measured in N (or kgf, for kilogram-force).
 

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