What weight does our weighing machine show?Is it the mass or weight(mg)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the distinction between mass and weight as indicated by weighing machines, specifically addressing whether these devices show mass or weight (mg). The scope includes conceptual clarifications and technical explanations related to the functioning of different types of weighing devices.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that mass is measured in kilograms or slugs, while weight is measured in Newtons or pounds, suggesting that the device displays one or the other based on its design.
  • One participant notes that a spring balance measures weight (force), while a true balance compares mass against a standard mass, independent of local gravitational acceleration.
  • Another participant explains that bathroom scales indicate the force exerted between the ground and the user, which is typically interpreted as weight when not accelerating vertically.
  • It is mentioned that while many people refer to mass as weight, this is scientifically inaccurate, as weight can change based on the gravitational field, such as on different planets.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the terminology and measurement implications, indicating that there is no consensus on whether weighing machines show mass or weight, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the dependence on the definitions of mass and weight, as well as the varying gravitational conditions that affect weight measurements.

adi1998
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What weight does our weighing machine show?Is it the mass or weight(mg)?
 
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Mass is in kg/ slugs. Weight is in Newtons/ Pounds...so whichever one is written is what it "shows".

It measures your weight (mg) however, and then either displays that or assumes g and converts it for you.
 
A spring balance will only register your weight (force). A true balance or a steelyard will compare the mass of your test object with a standard mass, irrespective of local g.
 
A weighing 'machine' such as bathroom scales indicates the force between the ground and your feet. If you are not accelerating vertically this is the force of gravity on you, this is what is usually called your 'weight'
 
On the balance , you have mass(kg) but many people say weight which is scientifically wrong.

Unlike your mass , your weight can vary whether it's on the moon or Earth or any planet due to the fact that gravity varies.
 

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