Difference between mass and weight.

Mass is the measure of the amount of matter in a body. Mass is denoted using m or M.

Weight is the measure of the amount of force acting on a mass due to the acceleration due to gravity. Weight usually is denoted by W. Weight is mass multiplied by the acceleration of gravity.

Comparison of Mass and Weight

1)- Mass is a property of matter. The mass of an object is the same everywhere,

   - Weight depends on the effect of gravity. Weight varies according to location.

2)- Mass can never be zero.

    -Weight can be zero if no gravity acts upon an object, as at the center of earth(g = 0).

3)- Mass does not change according to location.

   - Weight increases or decreases with higher or lower gravity.

4)- Mass is a scalar quantity. It has magnitude.

   - Weight is a vector quantity. It has magnitude and is directed toward the center of the Earth or other gravity well.

5)- Mass may be measured using an ordinary balance.

   - Weight is measured using a spring balance.

6)- Mass usually is measured in grams and kilograms.

    - Weight often is measured in newtons, a unit of force.