What is the formula for calculating weight?

Study for the NCEA Level 2 Mechanics Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for success!

Weight is the force exerted by gravity on an object and is calculated by multiplying the mass of the object by the acceleration due to gravity. The standard formula for weight is:

Weight (W) = Mass (m) × Gravitational acceleration (g).

In this context, mass is measured in kilograms (kg), and gravitational acceleration is typically approximated as 9.81 m/s² on the surface of the Earth. Therefore, if you know the mass of an object, you can easily find its weight by using this formula.

The other options do not correctly represent the relationship between weight, mass, and gravitational acceleration. For instance, dividing mass by gravitational acceleration, adding them, or taking the ratio of gravitational acceleration to mass does not yield weight, and these approaches misunderstand the fundamental concept of how weight is derived from the force of gravity acting on a mass.

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