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

In summary, a weighing machine measures your weight (mg) and displays it or converts it to kg or slugs. A spring balance only registers your weight and a true balance compares the mass of an object to a standard mass regardless of local gravity. However, a weighing machine like bathroom scales measures the force between the ground and your feet, which is commonly referred to as weight even though it is scientifically incorrect. Unlike mass, weight can vary depending on the gravity of a planet.
  • #1
adi1998
15
0
What weight does our weighing machine show?Is it the mass or weight(mg)?
 
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  • #2
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.
 
  • #3
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.
 
  • #4
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'
 
  • #5
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.
 

What weight does our weighing machine show?

The weighing machine shows the force of gravity acting on an object, which is commonly referred to as weight.

Is it the mass or weight(mg)?

The weighing machine shows the weight (mg) of an object, not its mass. Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object, while weight is a measure of the force of gravity on that object.

How is weight different from mass?

Weight and mass are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different physical quantities. Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object, while weight is a measure of the force of gravity acting on that object. Mass is constant, while weight can vary depending on the strength of gravity.

What units are used to measure weight on a weighing machine?

The most commonly used unit for weight on a weighing machine is the Newton (N), which is a unit of force. However, some weighing machines may also display weight in other units such as kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs).

Can a weighing machine show different weights for the same object?

Yes, a weighing machine can show different weights for the same object depending on the strength of gravity. For example, an object will weigh less on the moon compared to on Earth because the moon has weaker gravity. Additionally, slight variations in the calibration or accuracy of the weighing machine can also result in slightly different weights for the same object.

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