What is the difference between mass and weight?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the distinction between mass and weight, exploring definitions, units of measurement, and the relationship between the two concepts. It includes both conceptual clarification and technical reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation involving weight and mass, questioning the correctness of their understanding of the relationship between the two.
  • Another participant clarifies that mass is measured in kilograms while weight is measured in Newtons, referencing the formula ##F_g=mg## to illustrate the relationship.
  • A participant acknowledges their realization that weight is a type of force.
  • Further clarification is provided regarding the notation used for weight, indicating that it was intended to represent gravitational force.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the relationship between mass and weight, with some clarifications made but no consensus reached on the initial confusion presented.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the interpretation of units and the implications of the calculations presented, as well as the potential for misunderstanding the distinction between mass and weight.

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If I have a human specimen with a WEIGHT of: 61.14 kg, and then divide by 9.8 m/s^2 (g), then the specimen has a MASS of: 6.24 kg.

So...is this wrong, or right?

Is there one type of kg for weight, and another for mass?

As I understand it: weight is a measure of force, whereas mass is a measure of matter.

So...is this wrong, or right?
 
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There is the mass and the force. Mass is measured in kilograms and force is measured in Newtons and the relationship is ##F_g=mg##. If a reading is given in kg then it has already internally done the division by g for you.
 
What is the difference between mass and weight?
 
Never mind: I just figured it out. Weight is a species of force.
 
Yes, sorry I wasn't clear. That is why I labeled it ##F_g## above.
 

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