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Measure and compare mass

Mass describes how much matter an object contains and is measured using standard units such as grams and kilograms; one kilogram equals 1,000 grams. Quantities can be estimated, read from scales, converted to a common unit, and compared using <<, >>, or ==, recognizing that a larger-looking object need not have greater mass. More advanced units, density, and multi-step rate relationships are not included.

Detailed Explanation: Measure and compare mass

Mass tells how much matter is in an object. We measure mass in grams (g) and kilograms (kg).

Remember:

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

To compare two masses, first write them in the same unit.

Example: Which is greater: 2 kg2\text{ kg} or 1,800 g1{,}800\text{ g}?

  1. Convert 2 kg2\text{ kg} to grams:

2×1,000=2,000 g2\times1{,}000=2{,}000\text{ g}

  1. Now compare the masses:

2,000 g>1,800 g2{,}000\text{ g}>1{,}800\text{ g}

  1. Write the answer:

2 kg>1,800 g2\text{ kg}>1{,}800\text{ g}

So, the object with a mass of 2 kg2\text{ kg} is heavier. Always convert to a common unit before comparing.

Learn by doing: Measure and compare mass

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    Measurement Less or More - Mass (metric)

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