The Fundamentals of Mass
Mass is the measure of the amount of matter in a physical body. Unlike weight, which is the force of gravity on an object, mass is constant regardless of location. It is a fundamental property of matter.
Introduction & History
Early measurements of mass relied on balance scales and standardized reference objects, such as seeds or stones. The concept was formalized by Isaac Newton in his laws of motion. The kilogram, the SI base unit of mass, was originally defined by the mass of a specific platinum-iridium cylinder kept in France, but was redefined in 2019 based on the Planck constant.
Key Units
Kilogram (kg)
The base unit of mass in the SI system.
Gram (g)
Equal to 1/1000th of a kilogram, used for small quantities.
Milligram (mg)
One millionth of a kilogram, common in medicine and science.
Pound (lb)
A key unit in the imperial system, equal to about 0.453 kilograms.
Ounce (oz)
Equal to 1/16th of a pound, used for cooking and small goods.
Practical Applications
Scientific Research and Chemistry
Cooking and Baking
Shipping and Logistics
Medicine and Pharmaceuticals
Material Science