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Measure and compare mass

Mass is a measurable attribute distinct from an object’s size, and is quantified with standard units such as grams and kilograms using scales and numerical measures. Learners compare, order, estimate, and measure masses, recognize that 11 kilogram equals 1,0001{,}000 grams, and solve addition and subtraction problems involving masses expressed in compatible units; a larger object is not necessarily more massive. More complex unit conversions and multiplicative measurement reasoning are beyond this scope.

Detailed Explanation: Measure and compare mass

Mass tells how much matter is in an object. We measure mass with a scale, usually in grams (g) or kilograms (kg). A bigger-looking object is not always heavier.

Remember:

1 kilogram=1,000 grams1\text{ kilogram}=1{,}000\text{ grams}

Example: A box has a mass of (1 kg 200 g)(1\text{ kg }200\text{ g}). A bag has a mass of (850 g)(850\text{ g}). Which object is heavier, and by how much?

Step 1: Use the same unit.
Change the box’s mass to grams:

1 kg=1,000 g1\text{ kg}=1{,}000\text{ g} 1 kg 200 g=1,000 g+200 g=1,200 g1\text{ kg }200\text{ g}=1{,}000\text{ g}+200\text{ g}=1{,}200\text{ g}

Step 2: Compare the masses.

1,200 g>850 g1{,}200\text{ g}>850\text{ g}

So, the box is heavier.

Step 3: Find how much heavier.

1,200 g−850 g=350 g1{,}200\text{ g}-850\text{ g}=350\text{ g}

The box is (350 g)(350\text{ g}) heavier than the bag.

Learn by doing: Measure and compare mass

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    Measurement Less or More - Mass (metric)

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