Here's a breakdown:
* Scale: A scale uses a spring or other mechanism to measure the force of gravity acting on an object (its weight). This force is then converted to a mass reading.
* Balance: A balance compares the mass of an unknown object to a known mass. This is done by placing the object on one side of the balance and known weights on the other. The balance will indicate when the masses are equal.
Both scales and balances are commonly used to measure mass, though scales are more practical for everyday use.
