Step 1

Measure Force

You will need a newton-meter spring scale and assorted objects with different masses.  It is not necessary to know the mass of the objects.

Each object will need to have a means of hooking the spring scale to it.  If necessary you can tie a string around the object and hook the spring scale into the string. 

• Use the newton-meter to pull each object along a smooth surface
• Note the force required to move each
• Repeat with the objects on a rough surface
• Note the force required to move each one
• Speculate on any differences you found

Record your results in your course portfolio

Step 2

Measure Weight

Using each of the masses from the previous step

• Weigh each mass with the newton-meter
• Record each weight

Record your results in your course portfolio

Step 3

Calculate Weight and Mass

Using the results you recorded in step 2, calculate the mass of each object using the relationship

W = mg

Record your results in your course portfolio

Step 4

Investigate Newton

The unit of force was named in honor of Sir Issac Newton.  Investigate Newton and determine why he deserved this honor.