beam scale
Definition
Noun: A beam scale is a portable weighing device consisting of a pivoted bar (the beam) with arms of unequal length. A known weight is placed on the shorter arm, and the object to be weighed is placed on the longer arm. The weight is determined by the position of a counterweight or by using standardized weights.
Usage
The term "beam scale" refers specifically to the classic mechanical balance. It is used to describe the physical instrument. * The merchant used a beam scale to weigh the spices. * For the science experiment, we compared the accuracy of a digital scale and an old-fashioned beam scale.
Advanced Usage
- Historical/Technical Context: The beam scale, based on the principle of the lever, is one of the oldest types of weighing instruments and is a precursor to modern scales.
- The design of the beam scale has remained fundamentally unchanged since antiquity.
Variants and Related Words
- Balance Scale: A more general synonym for a device that measures mass by balancing two forces. A beam scale is a type of balance scale.
- Lever Scale: Another descriptive term emphasizing the working principle.
- Steelyard: A specific, common type of beam scale where a single counterweight slides along a calibrated arm to balance the object hung from the shorter arm.
Synonyms
- Balance
- Steelyard
- Lever balance
- Mechanical scale
Related Phrases
- To tip the scales: An idiom meaning to be the deciding factor, derived from the image of a beam scale moving to one side.
- Her final argument tipped the scales in our favor.
Noun
-
a portable balance consisting of a pivoted bar with arms of unequal length
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
