Measuring Mass: F=ma - kg or g?

In summary, The standard unit for mass is the kilogram, which is equivalent to 103 grams. In the MKS system, force is measured in Newtons and acceleration in meters per second squared. Therefore, when calculating mass, it is important to use compatible units, such as kg and m/s^2.
  • #1
Awsom Guy
77
0
m=F/a
then is mass measured in kg or g.
Thanks
 
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  • #2
Either will do but today's standard is the kilogram.

The scientific world uses the MKS system - metre, kilogram, second.

If you use the kilogram the force is measured in Newtons and the acceleration in metres per (second) 2
 
  • #3
SI unit for mass is kilogram (kg), which is the same as 103 grams

1kg = 103 g.


I hope you didn't mean g as in acceleration due to gravity.
 
  • #4
Thanks guys
 
  • #5
Awsom Guy said:
m=F/a
then is mass measured in kg or g.
Thanks

You need compatable units. If force is given in Newtons, acceleration should usually be given in meters per second squared. With these units of force and acceleration the value you get for the mass is in kilograms.
 

Related to Measuring Mass: F=ma - kg or g?

What is mass and how is it measured?

Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object. It is typically measured in kilograms (kg) or grams (g). Mass can be measured using a scale or balance, which compares the weight of an object to a known weight.

What is the difference between mass and weight?

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

How does F=ma relate to measuring mass?

F=ma is a formula known as Newton's Second Law of Motion, where F represents force, m represents mass, and a represents acceleration. This formula can be used to calculate the force needed to accelerate an object with a certain mass at a certain rate. In order to use this formula, mass must be measured in kilograms.

Why is mass measured in kilograms or grams?

The kilogram (kg) and gram (g) are the SI units for mass. These units are used because they are based on the metric system, which is a standardized system of measurement used by scientists all over the world. This allows for consistency and easy comparison of data.

Can mass be measured in other units besides kilograms or grams?

Yes, mass can also be measured in other units such as pounds (lb) or ounces (oz). However, these are not standard units in the SI system and may be converted to kilograms or grams for scientific purposes. It is important to use the correct units when measuring mass to ensure accuracy and consistency in data.

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