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Ever pondered over mass or how to ascertain an object's weight? Dive into Step 1 to uncover methods for determining an object's weight without relying on a scale.
Steps
Calculating Weight Based on Volume
Calculate the volume of the object. Let's assume you have a cube with dimensions of 10x10x10. The volume would be 1000.
Apply the formula mass equals density times volume. This necessitates knowing the density of the object. For instance, water has a density of 1 gram (0.035 oz) per cubic centimeter. Thus, for a volume of 1000 cc, the weight is 1000 grams.
Understand the density of various substances:
- Gold - 19.32
- Lead - 11.3437
- Silver - 10.5020
- Copper - 8.5 to 8.8
- Steel - 7.9
- Iron - 7.4 to 7.7
- Aluminum - 2.7
- Limestone 2.6 to 2.8
- Glass - 2.4 to 2.8
- Brick - 1.4 to 2.2
- Concrete - 2.2 to 2.5
- Ice - 0.9
- Wax - 0.9
- Pinewood - 0.5
- Mercury - 13.543
- Seawater - 1.03
- Water - 1.0
- Petrol - 0.85
Determining Weight Using Applied Force
It's worth noting that this technique is solely employed by astronauts for spaceship measurements. It's not applicable in daily life due to ubiquitous resistance.
Determine the object's acceleration.
Determine mass via applied force. Achieve this by dividing acceleration by force exerted (as per Newton's second law: force equals mass times acceleration).
- For instance, if a cube has an acceleration of 1000 millimeters per second squared (always measure in millimeters) and the force exerted is 2 kilograms millimeters per second squared, then the cube must weigh 2 grams.
Weight Determination with a DIY Balance
Counterbalance with lightweight, identical cups at both ends. This could entail a ruler balanced on an object, or a string over something with minimal friction, with cups affixed at both ends.
Position the object on one end, and fill the opposite cup with pure water until equilibrium is achieved. If the object is too lightweight for this method, you'll need to either reduce friction at the pulley or fulcrum, or utilize lighter materials for the balance and cups.
Calculate the volume of the water, and convert to milliliters. The volume in milliliters equals the weight in grams.
Helpful Pointers
- When measuring an object, always ensure accurate volume determination. No shortcuts.
- You can gauge volume by gently submerging the object in water. Ensure full coverage by water. Measure the displaced water volume, which equals the object's volume.
Cautionary Notes
- Employ the first method for objects used in daily life.
Essential Supplies
- Ruler or instructions from the instructor (optional)
- Any liquid (water works well)
- Paper for calculations
- Pencil/pen
