JAMB Physics 1985 Question 3

Question 3

Measurement and Units

Which of the following statements are true about the spring balance and the chemical balance? I. Both are used to measure the mass of an object II. Either of them may be used to measure the weight of an object. III. The spring balance works on the principle of Hooke's law while the chemical balance works on the principle of moments. IV. A change in gravity changes the readings of a spring balance but not that of a chemical balance

  1. A.I and IV
  2. B.II and III
  3. C.III and IV
  4. D.I, II and III
  5. E.I and III.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (III and IV)

Explanation

A spring balance measures weight using Hooke's law, so its reading changes with g. A chemical balance compares masses using moments, so its reading does not change with g.