The method of measurement of mass is through the use of a balance scale or electronic balance. Mass is the amount of matter in an object, and it is measured using the international system of units (si), specifically in kilograms (kg).
Mass can also be measured in grams (g) or milligrams (mg) for smaller objects. The balance scale works based on comparing the weight of the object to a known mass, while the electronic balance measures the force exerted by the object’s mass on a weighing pan.
Accurate measurement of mass is critical in various fields, including scientific research, medicine, engineering, and manufacturing processes. In this article, we will delve into the different methods, instruments, and techniques used to measure mass accurately.
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Standard Method Of Mass Measurement
Measurement of mass is a crucial aspect of various industries, including the pharmaceutical, food, and automotive industries. Standard method of mass measurement relies on the definition of the kilogram, the international prototype of the kilogram, and the use of balance to measure mass.
Description Of The Standard Definition Of The Kilogram
The international system of units (si) defines the kilogram as the basic unit of mass. As per the standard definition, the kilogram is equal to the mass of the international prototype of the kilogram (ipk), a platinum-iridium cylinder kept at the international bureau of weights and measures (bipm) in france.
This prototype serves as the standard unit of measurement for the mass.
The International Prototype Of The Kilogram
The ipk is a solid cylinder measuring approximately 39 millimeters in diameter and 39 millimeters high. The cylinder’s mass is precisely 1 kilogram, and it is stored in a triple-locked safe at the bipm. To maintain the prototype’s integrity, it is only handled once every 40 years, and it is periodically compared to other copies stored in different locations worldwide.
The Use Of Balance To Measure Mass
One commonly used method to measure mass is with a balance, which is a device that measures mass by comparing the object being weighed with known masses. The object is placed on one side of the balance, and known masses placed on the other until a balanced position is reached.
The total value of the known masses is equal to the mass of the object.
Accurate mass measurement requires careful consideration of various factors that might affect the measure, such as variation in temperature and air pressure. Therefore, to ensure high precision, calibrated weights are utilized in the measurements.
The standard method of mass measurement entails using the definition of the kilogram, the international prototype of the kilogram, and balances to achieve accurate measurements of mass.
Electronic And Mechanical Methods Of Mass Measurement
The measurement of mass refers to the process of determining an object’s amount of matter or substance. The most common methods for measuring mass include electronic and mechanical methods. In this section, we will delve deeper into each of these methods and analyze their principle and types.
Principle Of Electronic Method Of Mass Measurement
Electronic balances operate by maintaining an electromagnetic balance between the load and the applied weight. These types of balance work based on the principle of electromagnetic force compensation. The electronic balances are incredibly precise and accurate since they have a high sensitivity level.
The balances determine the mass of a weighing pan by measuring the displacement caused by the object placed on top and compensate with an electromagnetic force to create equilibrium.
Types Of Electronic Balances Commonly Available In The Market
Electronic balances are widely used and available in the market in different designs and types.
- Top loading balances: These are typically used in laboratories and weigh larger samples accurately.
- Analytical balances: These are more precise balances, capable of detecting small changes in mass and measuring with high accuracy.
- Microbalances: These are ultra-precise balances often used in scientific research laboratories.
- Moisture analyzers: These electronic balances measure the moisture content of the substances by heating them.
These balances require an external power source to operate and need to be regularly inspected and calibrated to ensure their accuracy.
Brief About The Mechanical Methods Of Mass Measurement
Mechanical balances measure weight by comparing the gravitational force acting on an object with an opposite force such as tension or compression. These balances include a beam and pivot system, in which the weight of an object is determined by the evenness of the beam when suspended on the pivot point.
Mechanical balances often have a lower sensitivity and accuracy than electronic balances but are often still suitable for industrial applications. The common types of mechanical balances include the triple beam balance and platform balance. These balances require more maintenance and calibration due to the dependence on the accuracy of other physical measurements, such as the position of the mass within the system.
Electronic and mechanical methods of mass measurement offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. While electronic balances offer greater accuracy and precision, mechanical balances are simpler in design and less affected by environmental factors. Understanding the principles and differences between these methods is essential to determine the perfect mass measurement solution for a specific application.
Requirements For Accurate Mass Measurement
When it comes to measuring an object’s mass, accuracy is crucial. The smallest measurement error can result in significant consequences, particularly in fields such as research and industry.
Importance Of A Controlled Environment For Accurate Measurement
A controlled environment is essential for accurate measurement of an object’s mass. External factors can significantly affect the measurement accuracy.
- Even a slightest presence of air resistance can affect the reading on the scale. Hence, researchers often use vacuum enclosures to avoid it.
- Temperature fluctuations can cause physical changes to the object. Researchers often maintain a steady temperature to ensure measurement accuracy.
- Gravity fluctuates at different locations, and this can impact the measurement results. As a result, measurements are often taken at specific locations.
Effects Of External Factors Such As Air Resistance, Temperature, And Gravity
External factors such as temperature, air resistance, and gravity can impact measurement accuracy. Temperature, for example, can cause thermal expansion or contraction of an object and result in a measurement error.
- Air resistance: An object moving through the air experiences air resistance. Hence, a moving object’s weight reading is lower than its actual value. Therefore, researchers often use vacuum enclosures to reduce air resistance.
- Temperature: The temperature of the object can cause expansion or contraction, resulting in an error in measurement. Hence, the temperature is maintained when measuring the mass of an object.
- Gravity: The force of gravity varies at different locations on earth. Hence, scientists must calibrate their instruments according to the location.
Calibration Process For The Balance
Calibration of the balance is critical to ensure its accuracy. The calibration process includes comparing the balance readings with standard weights.
- The balance must be turned on and allowed to warm up for 30 minutes.
- The standard weights are placed on the balance, and the readings are recorded.
- The process is repeated with different weights to ensure accuracy.
- If the readings are not accurate, the balance must be adjusted to ensure the measurements are consistent.
Measuring the mass of an object accurately is crucial for accurate results and avoiding consequences. A controlled environment, calibration, and accounting for external factors are essential for accurate measurement.
Challenges In Dimensional Metrology In Measuring Mass
Measurement of mass is crucial in various fields like pharmaceuticals, chemistry, and physics. The success of every experiment depends on the accuracy of the mass measurement. However, measuring mass with low uncertainty is a complex process because of various challenges associated with the process.
Mass Measurement With Low Uncertainty
Measuring mass with low uncertainty requires high precision instruments and skilled experts. However, even with advanced technology, the measurement of mass with low uncertainty can be challenging because of factors like environmental conditions, instrument stability, and operator error.
To ensure that mass measurement is accurate, experts must take care of several factors like:
- Reducing vibration in the laboratory
- Ensuring the stability of the measuring instrument and the operating environment
- Calibrating the measuring instrument regularly
Calibration Of Mass Artifacts In Laboratory
Calibration of mass standards usually takes place in the laboratory to deliver the required accuracy and precision. It is critical to calibrate mass artifacts accurately to maintain measurement uncertainty. The traceability of measurements back to international standards helps demonstrate the measurement quality and provides confidence in the measurement results.
Regular calibration of mass artifacts helps to:
- Ensure accurate and traceable measurement results
- Ensure compliance with international standards
- Identifying issues in the mass measurement process
Standardisation Vs Accuracy
Accuracy in mass measurement is important as it affects the success of an experiment. However, standardisation is equally crucial since it follows a set of international standards making it easy to reproduce results. When considering accuracy and standardisation, it’s vital to consider that these two aspects are independent of each other.
A measuring instrument can be calibrated, and yet, it may not be accurate enough. Additionally, an instrument can be precise yet not accurate.
Mass measurement is a crucial process in any laboratory. Several challenges are associated with dimensional metrology in measuring mass. Therefore, it is necessary to mitigate these challenges by ensuring the environment and measuring equipment’s stability. Calibration of mass artifacts using international standards helps maintain measurement accuracy and traceability.
However, it is essential to note that accuracy and standardisation are two distinct aspects, and they do not depend on each other.
Frequently Asked Questions Of What Is The Method Of Measurement Of Mass?
What Is Meant By The Term ‘Mass’?
Mass refers to the amount of matter present in an object. It is measured in kilograms or grams. Mass is different from weight as it remains constant regardless of the location or environment.
How Is Mass Measured With A Balance?
The most common method of measuring mass involves using a balance. The object whose mass is to be measured is placed on one pan of the balance, while standard masses are added to the other pan. The masses on the two pans are adjusted until both the pans are in equilibrium, indicating that the masses are equal.
What Are Some Other Methods Of Mass Measurement?
Apart from using a balance, there are other methods of measuring mass like using a spring scale, a vibrating tube, or even by observing the object’s effect on its environment. However, these methods are less accurate and are seldom used in scientific measurements.
Why Is It Essential To Measure Mass Accurately?
Accurate mass measurement is essential in various fields like medicine, physics and chemistry, and engineering. Incorrect measurements could lead to errors in calculations and result in potentially costly consequences. Accurate mass measurement is vital for developing or manufacturing products, researching, and understanding the world around us.
Can Mass Be Measured In Space?
Yes, mass can be measured in space, where objects have zero gravity. Scientists use highly precise instruments and techniques to measure mass in space. Objects are weighed in the microgravity environment, and measurements are conducted to the nearest microgram. Mass is a universal property and can be measured in any place in the universe.
Conclusion
As we conclude this discussion on the method of measurement of mass, it’s important to note that it is a fundamental concept in the fields of physics and chemistry. We have seen that mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object, and it is directly proportional to gravitational force, as illustrated in newton’s second law of motion.
Understanding the concept of mass and its various units of measurement is crucial in a majority of scientific experiments and industrial applications. Additionally, we have discussed the different tools and methods used in measuring mass, including balance scales, electronic balances, and the gravimetric method.
It’s important to use the appropriate equipment and techniques when taking measurements to ensure accuracy and precision. Being knowledgeable about the method of measurement of mass is essential not only for scientific research but for everyday use in industries and households.