Principle

In Experiment ME 2.3 [Weight (force)] the students determine the
mass of different objects with a spring balance (dynamometer). They
measured the force with a mass experiences under the influence of
the earth’s gravity. In contrast to this, measurements with the
beam balance determine the mass of an object by comparing it with a
defined mass from a weight set. At the same time this means that
the earth’s acceleration of gravity plays no role for this type of
measurement. A beam balance always provides correct results, e.g.,
even on the moon.

In this experiment the students should determine the mass of
different objects with a beam balance; in additional they should
perform a tare measurement; and they should improve the reading
accuracy to the extent that, by interpolating the scale, they
determine intermediate weights which the weight set cannot provide
because of its graduation.

In a supplementary problem the sensitivity of a beam balance
should be determined and its dependence on different loads
established.