Definition

Noun: A spring scale is a weighing device that measures weight or force by determining the extension or compression of a coiled helical spring. The amount the spring stretches is proportional to the force applied, and this is indicated on a calibrated scale.

Usage

A spring scale is used to measure weight or force by hanging an object from its hook or placing it on its platform. The spring inside stretches, and a pointer moves along a calibrated scale to show the measurement. - The scientist used a spring scale to measure the force of the magnet's pull. - At the market, the vendor weighed the fruit using a simple spring scale.

Advanced Usage

• In Physics Education: Spring scales are commonly used in classroom experiments to demonstrate Hooke's Law, which states that the force needed to extend or compress a spring is proportional to the distance.
  • The students verified Hooke's Law by recording the extension of the spring scale for different weights.
• As a Force Meter: While often used to measure weight (a force due to gravity), a spring scale can be used horizontally to measure other pulling forces, such as friction or tension.
  • They attached the spring scale to the block and pulled to measure the force of kinetic friction.

Variants and Related Words

• Spring balance: A synonym for spring scale.
• Force gauge / Force meter: A more general term for an instrument that measures force, which may operate on a spring mechanism similar to a spring scale.
• Newton meter: A spring scale calibrated to measure force in newtons, commonly used in physics.

Synonyms

• Spring balance
• Force meter (when used to measure force)

Related Phrases

• To weigh with a spring scale: The action of using this device.
  • You can weigh the parcel with a spring scale to estimate the postage cost.

Noun

1. a balance that measure weight by the tension on a helical spring