Distinguishing Mass and Weight in Physics

Steps:

• Recall definitions: Mass is the amount of matter in an object (scalar, kg); weight is the gravitational force on that mass (vector, N).
• Evaluate each option against these definitions to identify the accurate statement.
• Eliminate misconceptions: Mass doesn't change with location, but weight does due to gravity.
• Confirm the option that correctly describes weight as a force.

Why D is correct:

• Weight is defined as the force due to gravity, given by W = mg, where m is mass and g is gravitational acceleration.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Mass and weight are distinct; mass is invariant, weight varies with gravity.
• B: Mass and weight are related by weight = mass × g (about 9.8 m/s² on Earth), not 10 times inversely.
• C: Mass is scalar, weight is vector (has magnitude and direction).

Final answer: D