Balance Scale Measurement
Understanding Significant Figures
Explore how measurements with different precision levels affect calculations through this interactive balance scale. Students learn about significant figures by comparing a box mass (measured to 0.01 kg) with gold pieces (measured to 0.01 g). When adding measurements, the result's precision matches the least precise measurement. This fundamental concept ensures accurate scientific reporting and helps students understand why measurement tools with different precision levels produce results limited by the least accurate instrument.
Box Mass (kg)
2.30
Gold Piece 1 (g)
20.15
Gold Piece 2 (g)
20.17
Measurement Results
Total Mass:
2.34 kg
Gold Difference:
0.02 g
Balance Status:
Left Heavier
Key Concept: Total mass is rounded to 2 decimal places (matching box precision). Gold difference maintains 2 decimal places from original measurements. The scale tilts based on mass difference, visualizing measurement accuracy.
