Mass

My Definition

Key Characteristics

The following are true of mass:

  • Mass measures the amount of matter in an object.

  • Mass remains the same for an object regardless of its location.

  • Mass can be measured using a pan balance by balancing one object against another object with a known mass.

  • Units used to measure mass are usually milligram, gram, and kilogram.

  • Mass is not influenced by gravity.

Example

Use the link below to further study examples of mass.


Mass Activity

Non-example

Weight


Weight depends on location and is influenced by gravity. A person standing on the moon will weigh less than he or she does on Earth. If a person could stand on Jupiter, he or she would weigh more than he or she does on Earth. However, the mass of the person remains the same.



TEKS: 4(8)(C)
[Science TEKS: 4(5)(A)]