Which instrument is used to measure mass?

Which instrument is used to measure mass?

• A. Weighing scale
• B. Balance
• C. Thermometer
• D. Ruler

Answer: (B)

To measure mass, you want an instrument that compares the unknown object to known masses rather than just sensing a force. A balance does this on two pans: you put the object on one side and standard masses on the other, and when the pans balance, the object’s mass equals the total of the known masses. The readout is in grams or kilograms, giving a direct mass value. This method is independent of gravity, unlike devices that measure weight. A thermometer measures temperature, a ruler measures length, and a weighing scale measures weight (the force due to gravity). So the balance is the tool designed for determining mass.

To measure mass, you want an instrument that compares the unknown object to known masses rather than just sensing a force. A balance does this on two pans: you put the object on one side and standard masses on the other, and when the pans balance, the object’s mass equals the total of the known masses. The readout is in grams or kilograms, giving a direct mass value. This method is independent of gravity, unlike devices that measure weight. A thermometer measures temperature, a ruler measures length, and a weighing scale measures weight (the force due to gravity). So the balance is the tool designed for determining mass.