Mass Formula:
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Mass is a fundamental property of matter that measures the amount of substance in an object, while weight is the force exerted on that mass due to gravity. This calculator converts weight to mass using Newton's second law of motion.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula derives from Newton's second law (F = m × a), where weight is the force and gravity is the acceleration.
Details: Understanding the difference between mass and weight is crucial in physics and engineering. Mass remains constant regardless of location, while weight changes with gravitational pull.
Tips: Enter weight in Newtons and gravitational acceleration in m/s². Standard Earth gravity is 9.8 m/s², but this can vary on other planets or in specific calculations.
Q1: What's the difference between mass and weight?
A: Mass is the amount of matter in an object (measured in kg), while weight is the force of gravity acting on that mass (measured in N).
Q2: Why is g typically 9.8 m/s²?
A: 9.8 m/s² is the standard acceleration due to gravity at Earth's surface, though it varies slightly by location.
Q3: How would mass change on different planets?
A: Mass remains constant, but weight changes with different gravitational accelerations on other planets.
Q4: Can I use this calculator for objects in free fall?
A: Yes, the formula applies to any situation where you know the weight and gravitational acceleration.
Q5: What units should I use for accurate results?
A: Use Newtons for weight and m/s² for gravity to get mass in kilograms. Ensure consistent units for accurate calculations.