Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Which piece of equipment determines weights using a sliding beam and platform?

  1. Scale

  2. Balance

  3. Weighing machine

  4. Caliper

The correct answer is: Balance

The equipment that determines weights using a sliding beam and platform is typically referred to as a balance. A balance works on the principle of equilibrium, comparing the mass of an object placed on one side of the beam with known masses on the other side. The sliding beam allows for precise adjustments to measure the weight accurately, which is essential in various laboratory settings. In contrast, scales primarily measure weight through a different mechanism and often provide an instantaneous reading rather than relying on a balance of forces. A weighing machine is a more general term and does not specifically refer to the sliding beam and platform type of equipment. Calipers, on the other hand, are used for measuring dimensions rather than weight. Therefore, the correct choice is the balance, as it specifically utilizes the described mechanism for determining weights.