Force is measured in units called Newtons (N), where one Newton is defined as the force required to accelerate a mass of one kilogram at a rate of one meter per second squared (1 N = 1 kg·m/s²)
. How force is measured:
- The most common instrument to measure force is a force meter or force gauge. These devices often use a spring mechanism or a load cell to detect the amount of force applied. When a force is exerted, it causes the spring to stretch or the load cell to generate an electrical signal, which is then converted into a force reading in Newtons
- Force meters may have hooks or other attachments to apply tension or compression forces, allowing measurement of different types of forces such as tensile strength, compressive force, or puncture force
- Digital force gauges can provide precise numerical readings, often with options to display force in Newtons, kilograms-force, or pounds-force, depending on the application
Fundamental formula: Force can be calculated using the equation:
Force=mass×acceleration(F=ma)\text{Force}=\text{mass}\times \text{acceleration}\quad (F=ma)Force=mass×acceleration(F=ma)
This relationship helps in understanding the force acting on an object when its mass and acceleration are known
. In summary, force is measured using force meters or gauges that quantify the push or pull applied to an object, and the results are expressed in Newtons, the SI unit of force
