Skill: Measure and compare mass

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

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.

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

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

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

Convert $2\text{ kg}$ to grams:

2\times1{,}000=2{,}000\text{ g}

Now compare the masses:

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

Write the answer:

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

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

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Measurement Less or More - Mass (metric)

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