Physics
Object weight
Compare this with the buoyant force to decide whether the object rises, floats or sinks.
The Formula
W = mass x g
Compare this with the buoyant force to decide whether the object rises, floats or sinks.
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| W | Weight | N | Downward force due to gravity. |
| m | Mass | kg | Mass of the object in kilograms. |
| g | Gravity | m/s2 | Acceleration due to gravity, about 9.81. |
What Each Symbol Means
WN
Weight
Downward force due to gravity.
mkg
Mass
Mass of the object in kilograms.
gm/s2
Gravity
Acceleration due to gravity, about 9.81.
See It Worked With Real Numbers
A formula on its own does not tell you which number goes where. The how to calculate buoyancy page applies this equation to a concrete case, shows every intermediate step, and names the mistakes that produce a wrong answer even when the algebra is right.
Where This Formula Appears
This equation is the working core of How To Calculate Buoyancy, filed under Science. Every number the guide produces comes from substituting into this one line.