In simple terms, the following can be said:
A balance is used to caluculate the mass of an object in comparison to a known weight.
A scale is used to measure the force exerted on a mass by the gravity of the earth, then to convert that measurement into a calculation of the object's mass.
Therefore, we actually measure mass, not weight.
A scale provides much more precise calculations than does a balance.
Scales measure weight by comparing an object's weight to a known standard weight. Balances, on the other hand, measure weight by comparing the weights of two objects or masses placed on opposite sides of a pivot point. Scales are typically used for larger objects and can be electronic or mechanical, while balances are often used in laboratory settings for precise measurements.
Scales or balances
Weighing balances can be classified into different types based on their mechanism, such as mechanical balances, electronic balances, and analytical balances. They can also be classified by their capacity and precision, which include microbalances, semi-microbalances, precision balances, and industrial scales.
In a modern lab, you would use a digital scale to measure mass. Historically, balances and spring scales were used.
An electronic balance is typically more precise than a beam balance because electronic balances can measure weight to smaller decimal points, providing more accurate results. Beam balances rely on manual adjustments and reading of weights, which can introduce more room for human error compared to the automated measurements of an electronic balance.
The largest mass that a balance can measure depends on the specific balance. Scales can range from small analytical balances that measure a few grams to industrial scales that can measure tons.
I assume you mean the manufacturer while making and selling scales and balances. By the specifications on the equipment they are selling.
An electronic balance is used for general weighing applications and has a lower precision compared to an analytical balance, which is designed for highly precise measurements. Analytical balances have a higher readability and sensitivity compared to electronic balances, making them suitable for laboratory work that requires exact measurements. Additionally, analytical balances often have built-in calibration features to ensure accuracy.
Balances and scales.
Scales or balances.
Devices such as scales and balances are commonly used to measure weight and mass. Scales work by measuring the force of gravity acting on an object, which is directly proportional to its mass. Balances work by comparing the weight of an unknown object to the weight of a known standard mass. Both devices provide a numerical value that represents the weight or mass of the object being measured.
Scales or balances
Val Miller has written: 'Recommended guide for determining and reporting uncertainties for balances and scales' -- subject- s -: Balances - Weighing instruments -, Calibration, Scales - Weighing instruments -, Standards
Advantages: Beam balances are precise and offer accurate measurements, especially for small masses. They do not rely on batteries or electricity to function, making them reliable in various settings. They can also be cost-effective compared to electronic scales. Disadvantages: Beam balances typically have limited capacity for weighing larger masses. They can be slower to use compared to electronic scales, as readings may require more time to stabilize. They also require careful handling and maintenance to ensure accuracy.
Weighing balances can be classified into different types based on their mechanism, such as mechanical balances, electronic balances, and analytical balances. They can also be classified by their capacity and precision, which include microbalances, semi-microbalances, precision balances, and industrial scales.
The Wikipedia article on weighing scales has a good section on beam balances: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weighing_scale#Balance
The abbreviation lb comes from the Latin word libra, meaning scales or balances which also described a Roman unit similar to the pound.
Rulers (meter rules etc..) Scales Balances (spring balances, lever balances etc..) Micrometers (Digital/Analogue) Verniers (Vernier Callipers) Timers (stopwatches, timing oscillations, electronic timers)