Welcome to the Weighing Scales Glossary, a comprehensive guide to key terms and concepts related to scales and weighing systems. This resource is designed to help you understand the terminology and functionality of various weighing instruments and applications. The glossary is in alphabetical order making it easy to find the definition you’re looking for.
This is not a complete list of scale definitions. If you have any questions or want to add something, please let us know!
The process by which a scale sums multiple weights over a period to provide a total weight. This is particularly useful in processes where items are weighed individually and then combined to determine the total weight of multiple items or batches. Accumulation can occur automatically in digital scales with built-in software features or manually by recording and summing individual measurements.
Accuracy is the ability to display a value that matches the ideal value for a known weight.
A common term used for any mechanical or software changes made to a weighing scale, usually during calibration.
The environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, pressure, temperature, etc.) of the area surrounding the load cell. Standard environmental conditions at room temperature, which is typically accepted as 70° Fahrenheit.
A highly precise scale used in laboratories to measure small masses, Usually refers to sub-milligram weighing results.
The process of measuring the weight of animals using specialized scales designed to account for movement and ensure accurate readings, commonly used in veterinary and agricultural settings.
Stands for Average Piece Weight, calculated by dividing the total weight of multiple items by the number of items, often used in counting scales to determine the number of pieces.
Official certifications or endorsements from regulatory bodies indicating that a weighing scale meets specific standards and regulations for accuracy, safety, and performance.
An international standards organization that develops and publishes voluntary consensus technical standards for a wide range of materials, products, systems, and services, including those used in weighing and measurement.
A feature in some weighing systems where the door of the weighing chamber opens and closes automatically, often used in analytical and precision balances to reduce external influences and improve accuracy.
A feature where the display automatically zeroes to adjust for slow drift or changing environmental conditions.
An illumination feature in digital scale displays that enhances visibility of the readings, especially in low-light conditions. Most commonly used with LCD displays.
A type of display of some balances has a backlight that improves the visibility of readings, particularly in low-light environments.
A precision instrument, commonly used interchangeably with scale, used to measure the mass of an object by comparing it with known masses, commonly used in laboratory settings for high accuracy measurements.
The bottom part of a weighing scale that provides stability and support, housing components such as the load cell, feet, and sometimes leveling mechanisms. Also commonly referred to as the weighing base or platform.
Describes a scale that operates using batteries, offering portability and flexibility for use in various locations without the need for a direct power source.
The speed at which data is transmitted between devices, measured in bits per second (bps), often used in the context of serial communication for scales and other electronic instruments. “9600 baud” means that the serial port is configured to transfer 9600 bits per second.
Also known as under hook weighing. A method of weighing where the sample is suspended below the balance, often used for measuring the density of liquids and solids or for samples that are difficult to place on the balance pan.
A versatile, compact scale designed to be used on a workbench or tabletop. Often times, bench scales are also referred to as platform scales because it is common for the weighing base to be separate from the indicator. However, single unit compact scales are often referred to as bench scales as well because of their use on a work surface. Commonly used for weighing smaller items in industrial, laboratory, or commercial settings.
A condition where parts of a scale or its load cell become stuck or restricted, often leading to inaccurate measurements or mechanical failure. A common example is when a floor scale is pushed up against a wall. If the scale base is touching the wall it won’t be able to move up and down freely.
The smallest unit of data in computing, representing a binary value of either 0 or 1, commonly used in digital communications and processing.
A numerical value derived from an individual’s weight and height, used to assess whether they are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. It is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).
A protective enclosure around a balance or scale that shields it from air currents and environmental disturbances, ensuring more accurate and stable measurements. Even a slight draft from someone passing by can cause the display to fluctuate.
The procedure to force the scale to display a specific value for a known standard mass. Then any other mass is determined using this standard as the reference.
An official document that verifies a scale or measuring instrument has been calibrated against known standards and meets specified accuracy requirements. It typically includes details of the calibration process, results, and date.
A document that provides as found and as left data pertaining to the accuracy of a weighing scale or balance. Also known as a calibration certificate, a calibration report is typically completed by a certified scale technician, registered scale service agency or ISO accredited lab.
A precisely manufactured weight used as a reference standard to calibrate scales and balances, ensuring accurate and consistent measurements.
The maximum weight that a scale or balance can accurately measure without compromising performance or accuracy.
The ability of a system to store an electric charge, measured in farads (F), often used in electronic components like capacitors within weighing scales and other devices.
A function in some scales that verifies the number of items based on a preset sample weight, ensuring the correct quantity in packaging or inventory processes.
A checkweigher is a scaled used to verify a selected weight within programmed limits. An operator sets a pre-determined weight and once the desired weight is reached, the checkweighing scale will provide an audible or visible indication to the operator. Checkweighers are commonly used in filling applications where an operator fills and weighs a product to ensure consistent weight.
To compare a weight against limits to determine if the weight is within preset limits. Commonly used for filling applications.
Scales are classified based on the number of scale divisions and the value of the scale division (d or e). Classes designate the intended use and accuracy levels of the scale, as defined by regulatory standards.
A small, portable weighing device designed for convenience and ease of use in various settings, offering precise measurements while occupying minimal space.
The exchange of data between a weighing scale and other devices or systems, typically through interfaces like USB, RS232, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, enabling data transfer and integration into larger systems. Also referred to as the interface, or communication interface.
The ability to display the same value when a weight is placed anywhere on the weighing platform. Tested by weighing in the center of 4 quadrants on the platform. Also called eccentric loading or shift test.
A type of scale designed to count objects based on their weight, using a sample weight to determine the number of items in a batch, commonly used in inventory management and packaging.
Also known as a hanging scale, a heavy-duty scale designed to be suspended from a crane or lifting device, used to measure the weight of large, heavy objects in industrial and commercial applications.
Change that takes place in load cell output while under load, and with all environmental conditions and other variables remaining constant. Creep usually is measured with rated load applied and expressed as a percent of rated output over a specific duration.
A packet of bits that creates a command, message, or error reading. It usually consists of a thread of 7 or 8 bits.
The balances can be programmed to display and print the date on which the weighing operations were carried out.
A method of finding the density of a solid or liquid using a scale or analytical balance. This process often involves under-hook weighing and specialized kits, available as accessories for scales that offer density determination. For solids, the material is weighed in air and then suspended in a liquid to calculate density (grams/cubic centimeter). For liquids, a special float of known volume is weighed in air and in the liquid. Density can be determined manually or with special software on some balances.
Filters that reduce the influence of draft or vibration on a scale, enabling the balance to display a stable reading more quickly by smoothing out transient fluctuations and disturbances.
An electronic, non-mechanical scale that is widely used for various weighing applications. Digital scales are the most common type of scales available today and are used for everything from analytical measurements to heavy capacity weighing. They are found in many settings: at home for health purposes, in delis for weighing foods, in manufacturing for weighing shipments, and more.
Indicates that a scale or balance meets the European Community (EC) standards for accuracy, safety, and performance, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements for trade and commercial use within the European Union.
The ability of a scale to display the same value when a weight is placed anywhere on the weighing platform. This is tested by weighing in the center of four quadrants on the platform, also known as the shift test.
A scale that combines mechanical components with electronic systems to measure weight, offering the reliability of mechanical design with the precision and additional features of electronic measurement.
A network technology for local area networks (LANs) that connects devices like scales to computers and other equipment for data transfer and communication, enabling integration into larger network systems.
The calibration process of a balance using a known external weight, often referred to as a suggested calibration weight, to adjust and verify accuracy.
Indicates that a product has been tested and meets the safety and quality standards set by FM Global, ensuring it is reliable and safe for use in hazardous and combustible environments.
A common application that uses weighing scales to fill a container or packaging to a predetermined capacity based on weight. Filling scales typically feature a relay switch that shuts off the filling apparatus when the target weight is reached, making it especially useful in manufacturing and packaging processes.
A feature in some scales that allows the weighing range to adjust dynamically based on the load, providing greater accuracy across a wider range of weights.
Also known as a platform scale. A large, heavy-duty scale designed to be placed on the floor, used for weighing bulky or heavy items, often in industrial or warehouse settings.
Scale used for weighing foods. Also known as ingredient scales, portioning scales and restaurant scales. Food scales are commonly stainless steel and feature higher washdown ratings for easier cleaning.
A principle used in high-precision balances where an electromagnetic force is applied to counteract the weight of the object being measured, ensuring accurate and stable readings by maintaining balance. Also called Servo motor or force motor.
Also referred to as the recipe calculation function, it is a selectable weighing mode on precision and analytical balances that allows the user to easily store, add, and calculate the weight of multiple ingredients to provide a total weight value. Often used in pharmaceuticals, food production, and chemical manufacturing to ensure consistency and quality.
A system of management controls for laboratories and research organizations to ensure the consistency and reliability of results. Laboratory balances facilitate GLP printouts with traceability in terms of date, time, balance ID number, etc.
A program that provides a specific set of information on the balance and the sample weight, in conformance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
A comprehensive guide published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) outlining specifications, tolerances, and technical requirements for weighing and measuring devices to ensure accuracy and uniformity in commerce. Learn more about handbook 44.
A type of industrial scale designed to weigh bulk materials as they are dispensed from a hopper, commonly used in agriculture, manufacturing, and material handling for accurate batching and blending.
A housing refers to the cover, or enclosure, that houses a scale or indicator’s internal and electronic components.
Hysterisis is when the displayed value of a known weight is different depending on the direction of loading. An example of this would be if a 5 lb weight is placed on a scale and the scale displays 5.00 lbs but when the weight is removed from the scale it displays 0.01 lbs instead of returning all the way to 0.00 lbs.
The smallest change in weight that a scale or balance can detect and display, representing its resolution and precision.
Also known as a weight display or controller, an indicator is a device that typically controls a weighing scale or balance and displays the menu and weighing results. Indicators are commonly used in industrial applications where the scale base does not have the weight display integrated into the same housing.
A protective cover used on scales and balances while they are in operation, safeguarding against spills, dust, and other contaminants to maintain accuracy and prolong the device’s lifespan.
The connection and communication point between a scale or balance and other devices, such as computers or printers, enabling data transfer and integration into larger systems. Common interfaces include USB, RS232, Bluetooth, and Ethernet.
Equipment and wiring that are incapable of releasing sufficient electrical or thermal energy under normal or abnormal conditions to cause ignition of a specific hazardous atmospheric mixture in its most easily ignited concentration. Intrinsically safe scales, balances, and indicators are typically used in environments with combustible fumes or materials, such as paint and chemical manufacturers.
A classification system that indicates the level of protection a device has against solids and liquids. The rating is usually expressed as two numbers, with the first indicating protection against solids (like dust) and the second indicating protection against liquids (like water). Learn more about IP ratings.
A feature in some scales and balances where an internal mechanism automatically calibrates the device using a built-in reference weight, ensuring accurate measurements without the need for external calibration masses. Microtess offers automatic internal calibration in which the scale performs its own calibrations based on preset parameters including time, temperature and environmental changes.
A power source built into a device that can be recharged, allowing for portable use without the need for constant replacement of disposable batteries.
A device that uses infrared light to detect objects or measure distances without physical contact. In weighing scales, IR sensors can be used for touchless operation, improving hygiene and convenience. Tasks such as tare, zero and print can be performed hands-free with a simple wave of a hand.
ISO is an acronym for the International Organization for Standardization. An independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards to ensure the quality, safety, efficiency, and interoperability of products and services across various industries.
A precision scale used in jewelry establishments designed specifically for weighing small, valuable items such as gemstones, gold, and other precious metals, often with high accuracy and sensitivity to detect minute weight differences.
A very broad term for balances that are used in laboratories or research applications. Often featuring advanced functions such as calibration, data logging, and environmental adjustments.
In general, any person or business that buys, sells, or charges based upon weight within the United States must use a Legal-for-Trade scale. NTEP approved scales are certified for use in legal-for-trade applications. NTEP (National Type Evaluation Program) is a non-profit organization that certifies Legal-for-Trade scales.
The process of adjusting a scale or balance to ensure it is perfectly horizontal, typically using adjustable feet and a level indicator, to guarantee accurate and reliable measurements.
Commonly a mechanical level bubble or an electronic display on a scale or balance that visually verifies to the operator that the scale or balance is level. Ensuring the scale is level is important for accurate weighing results.
The measure of the amount of matter in an object, typically measured in units such as grams (g), kilograms (kg), or pounds (lb). Unlike weight, mass is not affected by gravity and remains constant regardless of location.
A scale that is not digital. A type of scale that uses physical components, such as springs or levers, to measure weight. These scales rely on mechanical movements to provide a weight reading, often displayed on a dial or through a pointer mechanism.
The interface on a scale or balance that allows users to navigate and select various functions and settings, such as calibration, unit selection, and other operational parameters. An operator can navigate through a menu using keys and prompts to perform specific tasks.
An ultra-precise balance designed to measure very small masses with extremely high accuracy, often with a readability of 1 microgram (0.001 mg) or better, used in advanced scientific research and analytical applications.
The manufacturer’s suggested specification for the smallest weight a sample must be for the scale to measure accurately. If the sample is below this recommendation, the results could be inaccurate, or the sample may not produce a result on the display at all.
A specialized balance used to measure the moisture content in a sample by weighing it before and after drying, typically using a built-in heating element. It provides accurate moisture analysis for various applications, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and materials testing. Also known as a moisture analyzer.
The process of measuring the moisture content in a sample, often performed using a moisture balance that heats and weighs the sample before and after drying to calculate the percentage of moisture present. This is crucial for quality control in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
The process of determining the mass of a mole of a substance, commonly used in chemistry to relate the mass of a sample to the number of moles, using the molar mass as a conversion factor.
A feature in scales and balances that allows users to select and switch between different units of measurement, such as grams (g), kilograms (kg), pounds (lb), and ounces (oz), providing versatility for various applications.
A process in weighing where multiple ingredients are measured individually and then combined to provide the total net weight, ensuring accurate formulation of mixtures and recipes.
The weight of the contents of a container, excluding the weight of the container itself, often determined by subtracting the tare weight (weight of the container) from the gross weight (total weight).
Stand for National Type Evaluation Program. A certification program in the United States that evaluates and certifies weighing and measuring devices for compliance with national standards, ensuring accuracy and reliability for commercial transactions.
The ability to display the same value when a weight is placed anywhere on the weighing platform. This is tested by weighing in the center of four quadrants on the platform. It is also called corner loading, eccentric loading, or the shift test.
Stand for International Organization of Legal Metrology. An international standards organization that develops and promotes global standards for metrology, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of measuring instruments used in trade, industry, and regulatory applications.
The range of temperatures within which a scale or balance can function accurately and reliably, as specified by the manufacturer, ensuring optimal performance in varying environmental conditions. If the environment is too cold or too hot, failure can occur or accuracy can decline. A weighing scale, especially digital scales, should be operated within the defined operating temperature range to ensure accuracy.
The maximum weight a scale or balance can handle without sustaining damage, typically expressed as a percentage above its rated capacity. It ensures the device’s durability and safety when subjected to heavy loads. Learn more about scale overload.
The flat surface or container on a scale or balance where objects are placed for weighing. It is designed to hold the items securely and ensure accurate measurement. Also known as a platform or platter.
A variable or setting that can be adjusted on a scale or balance to customize its operation, such as measurement units, calibration settings, and filtering options, ensuring the device meets specific user requirements and application needs. See also: Menu.
A function in scales that allows for counting multiple identical items based on their individual weight. By weighing a sample batch, the scale calculates the average piece weight and uses it to count the total number of items in subsequent weighings. Refer also to counting scale.
A function in some scales that captures and displays the maximum weight value recorded during a weighing process, useful for measuring the highest load applied to the scale over a period of time.
A function in some scales that allows users to measure the weight of an object as a percentage of a reference weight, facilitating comparative analysis and quality control in various applications. This application is commonly used in commercial baking where ingredients are weighed based on a percentage of the flour weight; also known as Baker’s Percentage.
A weighing application used to verify and calibrate pipettes, typically performed with high precision using an analytical balance, often a semi-micro balance or higher. Some manufacturers provide a kit for pipette adjustment, which includes the balance, software, and consumables.
A type of scale with a large, flat surface (platform) designed to weigh heavy or bulky items. Can also be referred to as a floor scale or bench scale. The term platform scale is commonly interchangeable with either of the two aforementioned scale types. “Platform” typically refers to a scale that has a weighing base, or pan, separate from a display, or indicator.
Codes used in retail settings to identify products and their prices, especially for items sold by weight. PLU numbers help quickly retrieve pricing information and streamline the checkout process.
A lightweight, compact weighing device designed for easy transport and use in various locations, providing accurate measurements in fieldwork, laboratories, and other on-the-go applications.
A scale designed for precise weighing of small quantities, commonly used in food service, baking, and retail to ensure accurate portion sizes and ingredient measurements. Also referred to as an ingredient scale or food scale.
A scale that calculates the price of a product based on its weight and a pre-set price per unit weight, commonly used in retail environments such as grocery stores and markets for efficient transactions. Also referred to as retail scales.
The energy source required for the operation of a scale or balance, which can be supplied by batteries, AC adapters, or rechargeable units, ensuring the device functions correctly.
A highly accurate balance used for measuring small masses with fine resolution, typically to the nearest 0.01 g or 0.001 g. It is commonly used in laboratory and industrial applications where precise measurements are crucial. Often times, precision balances are referred to as top-loading balances because they do not require a draft shield. Some precision balances, however, do include a draft shield.
Commonly referred to as division size or resolution. The smallest increment of weight that a scale or balance can display, indicating its precision and the fineness of measurement that can be achieved.
The ability of a scale or balance to consistently provide the same measurement under the same conditions over multiple trials, indicating the reliability and precision of the instrument.
The ability of a scale or balance to provide consistent measurement results under varying conditions, such as different users, different environments, or different times, indicating the reliability and robustness of the instrument. An example of this would be that a scale in an outdoor environment displays the same weight value when a known weight is placed on it at 40 degrees F and at 75 degrees F.
The smallest detectable change in weight that a scale or balance can measure, often expressed as the number of decimal places or the smallest increment that can be displayed. High resolution indicates greater precision and finer measurement capability. Also commonly referred to as readability or division size.
A scale used in commercial settings, such as grocery stores and markets, to weigh products for sale. These scales often include features for price computing and labeling, ensuring accurate transactions based on weight.
A standard for serial communication that allows data to be transmitted between devices such as scales, computers, and printers. It uses a specific protocol and connector to ensure reliable data exchange in various industrial and commercial applications. Scales that offer a RS-232 interface can be connected to computers and peripheral devices using a RS-232 cable.
The line that receives data in an RS-232 connection, enabling the transfer of information from the transmitting device to the receiving device.
The terms scale and balance are often used interchangeably. An instrument used to measure weight or mass, available in various types such as digital, mechanical, bench, floor, and specialized scales for different applications, ensuring accurate and reliable measurements across diverse settings. In modern weighing machines scales are usually using strain gauge load cells. See aslo: Balance.
An integrated bracket, typically built into the base or housing, used to secure a scale or balance. This helps prevent unwarranted relocation or theft of the device.
A highly precise balance designed to measure small masses with a readability of 0.01 mg (10 µg). It is commonly used in laboratories for tasks requiring high accuracy, such as chemical analysis and pharmaceutical research.
The ability of a scale or balance to detect and respond to small changes in weight, often expressed as the smallest weight increment that can be accurately measured. High sensitivity ensures precise and accurate measurements.
The variation in a scale’s or balance’s sensitivity due to temperature changes, which can affect the accuracy of weight measurements. Sensitivity drift specifications are usually provided for instruments with higher readability, such as semi-micro and micro balances.
A method of transmitting data between devices one bit at a time over a single channel or wire. Commonly used in scales for connecting to computers, printers, and other peripherals, enabling data exchange and integration into larger systems.
A test that verifies a scale’s ability to display the same result regardless of where the sample is placed on the weighing pan. Also known as a corner-load test, it is performed by scale technicians to ensure consistency at all four corners and the center of the platform. During a shift test, a known weight (usually equal to 1/4 or 1/3 of the scale capacity) is weighed in the center of the platform and at the center of each quadrant or each corner.
A scale used for weighing packages and parcels in shipping, warehousing, and logistics operations. These scales often have special programming to communicate with freight carriers like UPS®, FedEx®, and USPS® to calculate shipping rates based on weight. This functionality is typically integrated through a connection to a PC and shipping software.
The ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substance (usually water for liquids). It is a dimensionless quantity that indicates how much heavier or lighter a substance is compared to the reference substance. Specific gravity is commonly measured using a balance to determine the relative heaviness of the material. For solids, the material is weighed in air and then when suspended in a liquid. For liquids, a special float of known volume is weighed in air and then in the liquid.
The ability of a scale or balance to maintain a consistent and accurate reading over time without fluctuations, ensuring reliable measurement results. Stability is crucial for precise weighing, especially in environments with varying conditions.
The duration it takes for a scale or balance to settle and provide a stable, accurate reading after a load is applied, ensuring reliable measurements. Stabilizing time is determined from the time the sample is placed on the pan to the time the display shows the final result.
A feature on a scale or balance that signals when the measurement has settled and is stable, ensuring that the reading is accurate and reliable. The scale will show “stable” when the sample weight has been determined.
The initial bit in a serial communication packet that signals the beginning of data transmission, allowing the receiving device to synchronize and correctly interpret the incoming data.
A bit in serial communication that signals the end of a data packet, ensuring that the receiving device can recognize the completion of the transmitted data and prepare for the next packet.
The specified environmental conditions under which a scale or balance should be stored to maintain its accuracy and longevity, including factors such as temperature, humidity, and protection from dust and physical damage. This information is usually found in the user manual.
A method to determine mass using a mechanical component that bends slightly when an unknown mass is added. The amount of bending is measured by special resistors (strain gauges) mounted on the load cell, which change their electrical resistance in proportion to the deformation, allowing for precise weight measurements.
Similar to hopper scales except tank scales are used for weighing bulk liquid materials. See also hopper scales.
The function that subtracts the weight of a container or vessel from the total weight, allowing for the measurement of the net weight of the contents. For example, if you place a box of bolts on a scale and you want the weight of just the bolts, you’ll need to remove the weight of the box itself from the result.
The weight of a container or package that is excluded when weighing a sample.
The ability to correct errors introduced to the weighing system due to changes in temperature. This correction is usually done in software for precision balances and within the load cells for less accurate scales.
The range of temperatures within which a scale or balance can operate accurately, as specified by the manufacturer. This range ensures that the device performs reliably under different environmental conditions.
The balances can be programmed to display and print the time at which the weighing operations were carried out.
A function in some scales that accumulates and displays the total weight of multiple individual weighings, allowing for efficient summation of batch weights or consecutive measurements.
A mechanical scale with three adjustable weights on separate beams, used for precise measurement of mass. It is commonly used in educational settings for teaching basic principles of mass and weight measurement.
A large, robust scale designed to weigh entire vehicles and their cargo, typically installed at ground level or in a pit. Commonly used in logistics, agriculture, and construction to measure the weight of trucks and ensure compliance with weight regulations. They are also sometimes referred to as heavy capacity vehicle scales.
The line that sends data in an RS-232 connection.
The opposite of overload, an underload occurs when a sample does not meet the scale’s minimum weight recommendation. This situation is outside the scale’s minimum range, which can result in inaccurate readings or no results at all.
The smallest weight that a balance or scale can accurately measure, as specified by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards. This weight ensures that the balance provides accurate and reliable results for pharmaceutical and laboratory applications.
The smallest scale interval that can be used to determine price based on weight in commercial transactions. The value of the verification scale interval, designated as (e), is determined by the scale manufacturer when submitting the device for approval.
A type of scale features a high IP rating that designed to withstand thorough cleaning with water and detergents, often featuring a waterproof and corrosion-resistant construction, making it suitable for hygienic applications in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and other industries requiring strict cleanliness standards.
Another term for truck scale or heavy capacity vehicle scale. A large, heavy-duty scale used to weigh entire vehicles and their contents, typically installed in a fixed location such as a road or rail track, and commonly used in industries like logistics, mining, and agriculture to determine the weight of transported goods.
The process of determining the mass or weight of an object using a scale or balance, commonly applied in various settings such as laboratories, industries, and households to measure and quantify materials accurately.
The unit of measurement used by a scale or balance to display the weight of an object, such as grams (g), kilograms (kg), pounds (lb), or ounces (oz), allowing users to select the appropriate unit for their specific needs.
The result of gravity pulling a mass toward Earth. When a balance has been calibrated using a known mass, any unknown mass placed on the scale will have a weight proportional to the known mass. Units like grams (g) and kilograms (kg) are often used to describe the weight of an object. It is common for mass and weight to be used interchangeably. Additionally, a weight can refer to any mass used, such as placing a weight on the scale.
A feature on some balances that allows objects to be suspended and weighed below the balance, commonly used for density determination, weighing irregularly shaped items, or measuring the weight of objects that are too large to fit on the weighing pan.
To set the display to show zero weight, resetting the zero condition of a scale when small amounts of material are on the platform. Zero does not reduce the scale’s capacity but works within a small range around the original zero condition. Zero and tare functions are often combined on one key, and the terms are used interchangeably.
