Question

What instrument, with a digital readout, is used by scientists to measure very small masses?

Answer 1

electronic balance

To measure very small masses, scientists use electronic balances, like the one in the Figure below . This type of balance also makes it easier to make accurate measurements because mass is shown as a digital readout. In the picture, the balance is being used to measure the mass of a white powder on a plastic weighing tray. The mass of the tray alone would have to be measured first and then subtracted from the mass of the tray and powder together. The difference between the two masses is the mass of the powder alone.