Eli5 how do scales work? How do we know the weight shown is accurate?

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Eli5 how do scales work? How do we know the weight shown is accurate?

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Answer 1

Scales work a couple of different ways. Sometimes you’re balancing the weight against something else. Other times you’re using a spring, and the more weight you put on the spring, the further it compresses. Electronic scales use what’s called a load cell, which is a device that generates electrical current depending on how much weight you put on it.

We know the weight shown is accurate because scales are calibrated. And you can check a scale’s calibration fairly easily by putting a known mass on it. For example, 1000 mL of water at room temperature weighs 1 kg, so you can easily check if your scale is working.