Question

A weighing machine measures:
A. weight only
B. mass only
C. weight and mass
D. none of these

Answer 1

Hint: In this question we have been asked about the quantity that is measured by a weighing machine. Therefore, we shall discuss the quantity measured by the weighing machine. We know that weight is given as the product of mass of the body and acceleration due to gravity. Therefore, weight of the body depends on the acceleration due to gravity as no additional mass is added to the body, making mass of the body constant.

Formula used: \[F=mg\]

Complete step by step answer:
 when we weigh anything on the weighing machine, we get a specific reading. Let us assume that a body with mass m is to be measured on the weighing machine. Now, we know that for any body of mass m resting on a surface, the force applied by body on the surface is given as product of mass and acceleration due to gravity,
\[F=mg\]
Therefore, when the body is measured on a weighing machine, the reading taken by us will be the reading of the force calculated by the above formula. This force is known as the weight of the body. Therefore, we can say that a weighing machine measures weight only.

So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note: A weighing machine is a measuring instrument used to measure the weight of different things. A weighing machine may be electrical or balance type. The electrical weighing machine provides more accurate reading than a balance type weighing machine. Even though the weighing machine provides a reading of weight, mass of the body can be calculated using the above formula.