How to Measure Mass in the Metric System
Mass is a measure of the quantity of matter in an object. In the metric system it is measured using a balance scale. The unit of measurement for mass in the metric system is grams (g).
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Instructions
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Mass of a Solid
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1
Obtain a digital balance scale. A balance scale is the tool used for measuring mass.
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2
Place the scale on a flat, steady surface.
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3
Make sure the display on the front of the scale reads "0." If it does not, you will need to press the button on the front of the scale that says "reset" or "tare."
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4
Place the object you want to find the mass of on the scale.
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5
Wait a few seconds for the scale to determine the mass. The number displayed may fluctuate when you initially place the object on the scale. Make sure the number has been consistent for at least a few seconds before recording the mass.
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Record the number displayed on the digital display on the front of the scale.
Mass of a Liquid
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7
Obtain a digital balance scale. A balance scale is the tool used for measuring mass.
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8
Place the scale on a flat, steady surface.
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9
Make sure the display on the front of the scale reads "0." If it does not, you will need to press the button on the front of the scale that says "reset" or "tare."
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10
Place the empty container that you are going to pour the liquid into on the scale.
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11
Wait a few seconds for the scale to determine the mass. The number displayed may fluctuate when you initially place the object on the scale. Make sure the number has been consistent for at least a few seconds before recording the mass.
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12
Record the mass of the container by writing down the numbers displayed on the digital display on the front of the scale.
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13
Pour the liquid you want to determine the mass of into the container.
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14
Make sure the display on the front of the scale reads "0." If it does not, you will need to press the button on the front of the scale that says "reset" or "tare."
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15
Place the container with the liquid in it onto the scale.
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16
Wait a few seconds for the scale to determine the mass. The number displayed may fluctuate when you initially place the object on the scale. Make sure the number has been consistent for at least a few seconds before recording the mass.
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17
Record the mass of the container and the liquid together by writing down the numbers displayed on the digital display on the front of the scale.
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18
Subtract the mass of the container from the mass of the container and the liquid together. The result of this calculation is the mass of the liquid.
Example: If the mass of the container is 50 grams and the mass of the container and the liquid together is 65 grams, then the mass of the liquid is 15 grams (65-50 = 15).
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