11.06 Choose the right unit for mass
Are you ready?
Let's review the units of mass that we already know by trying this practice problem.
Examples
Example 1
It is most appropriate to use milligrams to measure:
Milligrams are appropriate to measure tiny very light objects like a small feather and insects.
Grams are appropriate to measure small light objects like a pencil case or cup.
Kilograms are appropriate to measure heavy objects like people and bikes.
Units for mass
This video introduces the units of milligrams, grams, kilograms and tonnes and discusses the types of objects that would be measured by these units.
Examples
Example 2
Choose the most appropriate unit of measure for the mass of a biscuit.
Mass is a measurement of how much matter is in an object. The weight is a measurement of how hard gravity is pulling on that object.
Examples of when to use certain units of mass:
| Object | Best unit |
|---|---|
| A feather | Milligrams |
| A block of chocolate | Grams |
| A person | Kilograms |
| A truck | Tonnes |