Mass

Definition

The property of an object that causes it to resist changes in its state of motion. This resistance is called inertia.

Purpose

Mass is a fundamental property of matter that determines how much resistance an object has to changes in its motion. It plays a crucial role in physics and engineering, affecting everything from gravitational interactions to mechanical forces.

Examples of Use

• Physics experiments: Measuring the mass of objects to study their motion and the forces acting on them.
• Engineering: Calculating the mass of components to ensure the stability and performance of structures and machines.
• Astronomy: Determining the mass of celestial bodies to understand their gravitational influence and behavior.

Related Terms

• Inertia: The tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion.
• Weight: The force exerted by gravity on an object's mass.
• Density: The mass of an object per unit volume.

Notes

• Mass is measured in units such as kilograms or grams.
• Unlike weight, mass does not change with the object's location or the gravitational field it is in.
• Understanding mass is essential for various scientific and engineering applications, including dynamics, materials science, and space exploration.