Name
Date
Block
Lab Activity 12: Mass, Weight, and Newton’s 2nd Law
Relationship between Mass and Weight
Mass is different than weight, but they are closely related to each other. Your job is to find the
mathematical relationship between mass (in kilograms) and weight (in Newtons).
Procedure:
 Use the balance to measure and record the masses in kilograms (kg) of the objects provided.
 The balances measure mass in grams. You will need to convert it into kilograms. There are
1000 grams in 1 kilogram.
 Use the spring scales to measure the weight of each object in Newtons (N).
Data:
1. Create a data table below to record the object, its mass, and its weight. Include appropriate
labels and measurement units to ensure your data is clear.
2. Create a graph of your data with weight on the y-axis and mass on the x-axis. If your data looks
linear, draw a line of best fit through your data points. If your data is curved, simply connect the
points. Be prepared to share your graph with the class.
Follow-Up Questions:
1. Look at the units of weight. What else is measured with this unit?
2. What equipment do you use to measure mass?
3. What equipment do you use to measure weight?
4. What is pulling down on the object when you measure its weight?
𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒆
5. Use your graph to calculate an approximate value of the slope. Remember: Slope = m = 𝑹𝒖𝒏
6. What are the units of your slope? Your answer should NOT include Newtons (N). Remember,
N = kg ● (m/s/s).
7. Use your Chromebook, and look up the acceleration of objects due to Earth’s gravity, in units of
m/s/s (or m/s2). What is it?
8. How does the slope of your graph compare to the acceleration due to gravity on Earth?
9. Newton’s 2nd Law states that force = mass ● acceleration (F = ma). In this equation, is weight a
force, mass, or acceleration?
10. Newton’s 2nd Law states that force = mass ● acceleration (F = ma). In this equation, is gravity a
force, mass, or acceleration?
11. Suppose you took your items to the moon and re-measured to make a new graph of the
relationship between weight and mass. Would the graph be the same (shape, steepness, etc.)?
Explain your thinking.