Physics Demo Number: 169

Approximate

Run Time: 5 min

Round Spring Balance, Calibrated In Newtons, Can Weigh An Apple

Demo Description

Use a spring balance, calibrated in Newtons,to weigh your apple or the supplied one Newton piece of Al.

Scientific Principles

• Spring balances can be constructed to weigh objects for you.

Equipment

• Round balance

• Piece of Al weighing one Newton

• Apple

Equipment Location

• Kit (169) on [E-2-6]

• Kit (169) on [E-2-6]

• Instructor supplies her own

Instructions

The balance is shown with an accurate 1N mass hanging from it in the first photo.

If one wishes to show that a typical apple weighs 1 or 2 N, then bring your future snack with you.

A closer view of the 1 N weight is seen in the second photo.

Notice that the flimsy piece of masking tape is sufficient to support 1 N

Writeup created by David A. Burba

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