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Mass - GCSE Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Leander Oates

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What is mass?

In GCSE Physics, mass refers to the amount of matter contained in an object. It is a scalar quantity, meaning it has magnitude but no direction.

Mass is not to be confused with weight, which is a force measured in newtons (N). Mass is measured in kilograms (kg) and describes the object's resistance to changes in motion when a force is applied.

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Leander Oates

Reviewer: Leander Oates

Expertise: Senior Physics Content Creator

Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.

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