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Weight Formula:
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The weight formula (W = m × g) calculates the force exerted on an object due to gravity. Weight is a vector quantity measured in newtons (N), where mass is in kilograms (kg) and gravitational acceleration is in meters per second squared (m/s²).
The calculator uses the fundamental weight formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula shows the direct proportionality between weight and mass, with gravitational acceleration as the constant of proportionality.
Details: Calculating weight is fundamental in physics and engineering for designing structures, understanding forces, and solving motion problems. It's different from mass, which is an intrinsic property of matter.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and gravitational acceleration in m/s² (9.8 m/s² for Earth). For other planets, use their specific gravity values (3.7 m/s² for Mars, 24.8 m/s² for Jupiter).
Q1: What's the difference between weight and mass?
A: Mass is the amount of matter in an object (constant everywhere), while weight is the force of gravity acting on that mass (varies by location).
Q2: Why is Earth's gravity 9.8 m/s²?
A: This value represents the average acceleration due to Earth's gravitational pull at its surface, varying slightly by location.
Q3: How would my weight change on the Moon?
A: With Moon's gravity being 1.62 m/s² (about 1/6th of Earth's), your weight would be approximately 1/6th of your Earth weight.
Q4: Can weight be negative?
A: No, weight is always positive as both mass and gravity are positive quantities. Negative forces might appear in coordinate systems but represent direction, not magnitude.
Q5: Why do we use newtons instead of kilograms for weight?
A: Kilograms measure mass, while newtons measure force (weight is a force). This distinction is crucial in physics calculations.