Which formula correctly defines weight?

• A. mass x velocity
• B. force x acceleration
• C. mass x gravity
• D. energy/time

Answer: (C)

Weight is defined as the force exerted by gravity on an object’s mass. The correct formula for this relationship is mass multiplied by the acceleration due to gravity, which is represented as mass x gravity. This equation reflects that weight varies depending on the local gravitational field strength; for example, on Earth, gravity is approximately 9.81 m/s². Therefore, if an object's mass is known, its weight can be calculated quite simply by using this formula.

Each of the other options represents different physical concepts. For instance, mass x velocity calculates momentum, force x acceleration aligns with Newton's second law of motion (F=ma), and energy/time describes power. None of these alternatives accurately represents the relationship between mass and weight as derived from gravitational force.