unequal-arm balance

Scale used for weighing loads that has a beam with arms of different lengths; the shorter arm supports the pan and the longer arm supports the weights that slide to attain a balance.

pan

Flat rigid stand on which the body to be weighed is placed.

rear beam

Rigid metal bar along which the sliding weight slides to provide a relatively precise reading of the mass.

front beam

Rigid metal bar along which the sliding weight slides to provide a very precise reading of the mass.

base

Support that provides stability to the scale.

pan hook

Curved part from which the pan is hung by means of rods.

vernier

Small graduated dial that slides along the beams and provides a very precise reading of the mass.

graduated scale

The divisions of equal length marked on the scale’s beam that constitute the units of measurement.

magnetic damping system

Device made up of magnets that reduce the beams’ oscillations when the weights are moved to provide a quick reading of the mass.

notch

Groove in which a sliding weight catches so that a precise reading on the graduated scale can be taken.

sliding weight

Sliding part that is moved along the beams until a balance between the two masses is attained.