Physics Formula
Weight Formula
Calculates the gravitational force acting on a mass.
Formula Summary
Weight
Calculates the gravitational force acting on a mass.
- Category
- Physics
- Equation
- W = m × g
- Calculator
- Use Weight Calculator →
Equation
W = m × g
Variables
- W = weight
- m = mass
- g = gravitational acceleration
How to Use This Formula
- Identify the known values from the problem statement.
- Convert all values into compatible units.
- Substitute the values into the equation and calculate the result.
- Check that the final answer has the correct unit and meaning.
Explanation
The weight formula calculates the gravitational force acting on an object. Weight depends on an object's mass and the local gravitational acceleration.
Worked Example
A 10 kg object on Earth with gravitational acceleration of 9.8 m/s² has a weight of 10 × 9.8 = 98 N.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing mass with weight because they use different units.
- Using the wrong gravitational acceleration value.
- Reporting weight in kilograms instead of newtons.
Applications
- Calculating forces acting on objects.
- Physics and engineering mechanics problems.
- Understanding gravity effects on different planets.