Question

Show how will you use the physical balance to measure the mass of an object.

Answer 1

 

To measure the mass of a body using a physical balance
(i). Before starting, bring the plumb line just above the pointed projection by adjusting the leveling screws at the base. The beam is then gently raised using the lever. And it should be ensured that the pointer swings equally on both sides of the zero mark of the scale.
(ii). Now lower the beam gently and the given body is kept on the left pan.
(iii). Next, place some weight on the right pan form the weight box using the forceps.
(iv). Now the lever is turned towards the right so that the beam rises and the power begins to swing to pointer swing on either side. It must be carefully noted that the side to which the pointer moves more, denotes lesser mass on that side.
(v). Go on adjusting the standard weights till the pointer swings equally on both sides of the zero mark.
(vi). At this stage, the total mass of weights on the right pan gives the mass of the body.