Understanding the Meaning of Mass Squared and Weighing 8.7 kg2 Explained

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of the phrase "weigh 8.7 kg²," exploring the implications of using squared units for mass or weight. Participants examine the context in which this phrase appears, questioning its validity and the potential for typographical errors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the meaning of "8.7 kg²," suggesting it may simply refer to 8.7 kg, but express confusion over the notation.
  • Others argue that the units are incorrect for mass or weight, emphasizing that standard units should be kg for mass and Newtons for weight.
  • A participant cites a specific source, the Norwegian Apple site, where the phrase appears, implying it may be a typographical error.
  • Another participant notes that the superscript 2 could refer to a footnote on the webpage, adding to the confusion regarding the notation.
  • Some express a sense of camaraderie over the misunderstanding, indicating that such errors are not uncommon.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the notation "kg²" is incorrect for weight or mass, but there is no consensus on the exact nature of the error or the implications of the source material.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the context of the phrase and the potential for typographical errors in the source material.

johann1301
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What does it mean when an object is said to weigh 8.7 kg2?

does it mean 8.7 kg? (if so, why would someone write it like 8.7 kg2?)
 
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johann1301 said:
What does it mean when an object is said to weigh 8.7 kg2?

does it mean 8.7 kg? (if so, why would someone write it like 8.7 kg2?)

Where do you see such a statement that an object "weigh 8.7 kg^2"? That is the wrong units for mass/weight.

Zz.
 
johann1301 said:
What does it mean when an object is said to weigh 8.7 kg2?

does it mean 8.7 kg? (if so, why would someone write it like 8.7 kg2?)
Those units make no sense. Where have you seen it?

Standard units, of course, would be kg for mass and Newtons for weight.
 
Its the norwegian Apple site.

http://store.apple.com/no/mac/family/imac/imac-vesa

look under "spesifikasjoner" (specifications) and "Størrelse og vekt" (size and weight)

I see now that the english site writes it different. Its must be a typing-error.
 
johann1301 said:
Its the norwegian Apple site.

http://store.apple.com/no/mac/family/imac/imac-vesa

look under "spesifikasjoner" (specifications) and "Størrelse og vekt" (size and weight)

I see now that the english site writes it different. Its must be a typing-error.

The superscript 2 refers to a footnote on the web page!
 
double_facepalm.png
 
ehhmm... yeah...
 
Don't feel bad about it... we've all had our "double facepalm" moments! :-p
 

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