[Physics] Why is the apparent weight smaller when you crouch down on a scale

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I am having a problem understanding the concept of the apparent weight change when you crouch down, stand up, and jump on the scale. What is happening that makes the scale change?

Best Answer

To shamelessly steal what James says above: the scale doesn't measure your mass, which remains the same no matter where you are, or what movements you make. The scale measures your weight, which is your mass multiplied by the acceleration due to the Earth's gravity, acting between your feet and the base of the scale.

You will measure your correct weight only if you stand on the scales without moving. As soon as you bend down, the muscles in your body that do the bending also act to pull up the lower half of your body. So this reduces the pressure your body places on the scales, and make you appear to weigh less.

Then, when you straighten up, your muscles act to force both the upper and lower halves of your body away from each other, now the scales will show a heavier weight since the lower half of your body puts a greater pressure on the scales.