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Weight is the force exerted on a mass due to gravity. On Earth, weight (in newtons) is calculated as mass (in kg) multiplied by gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²). However, in everyday usage, weight is often expressed in kilograms, which is technically the mass measurement.
The calculator uses the weight formula:
Where:
Explanation: This calculation shows the fundamental relationship between mass and weight, though in practice weight in kg is numerically equal to mass in kg when using standard units.
Details: Understanding weight is essential in physics, engineering, health monitoring, and everyday measurements. It's crucial for determining appropriate dosages in medicine, load capacities in construction, and nutritional needs.
Tips: Enter mass in kilograms and gravity in m/s² (9.81 for Earth). The calculator will output weight in kilograms. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Is weight the same as mass?
A: In physics terms, no. Mass is an intrinsic property of matter, while weight is the force exerted on that mass by gravity. However, in everyday usage, they're often used interchangeably when measured in kg.
Q2: Why is Earth's gravity 9.81 m/s²?
A: This is the average acceleration due to gravity at Earth's surface, varying slightly by location (9.78-9.83 m/s² depending on altitude and latitude).
Q3: How would my weight change on other planets?
A: Your mass stays the same, but weight would change based on the planet's gravity (e.g., about 1/6th on the Moon, 2.5× on Jupiter).
Q4: Why do we often measure weight in kg if it's technically mass?
A: For practical purposes, since we typically measure weight under Earth's gravity, the kg unit became conventional for both mass and "weight" in everyday contexts.
Q5: How is this different from pounds?
A: Pounds can measure both mass (lb) and force (lbf). In the US customary system, weight is properly measured in pound-force (lbf).