Why are balance weights usually made of a metal such as brass?
A Metal is more dense
B Metal is corrosion resistant
C Metal is cheaper
D Metal is softer
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A) Metal is more dense.
Balance weights are typically made of metals like brass because metal is denser than many other materials. The main reason for choosing a dense material is that it allows a smaller weight to achieve the desired balance. This is especially important in applications such as wheel balancing in vehicles, where the goal is to distribute weight evenly without adding too much bulk or increasing the size of the weight. A dense material ensures that the weight can be compact and efficient in achieving the necessary balance with a minimal volume.
Brass is commonly used because it has a good balance of density, strength, and corrosion resistance. Its density makes it suitable for achieving the required weight without taking up excessive space. Additionally, brass is corrosion-resistant, which ensures the balance weights maintain their effectiveness over time, even when exposed to elements like moisture or road salts. This corrosion resistance is particularly important in outdoor or automotive applications, where the weights are exposed to harsh conditions.
While cost, softness, and corrosion resistance are important factors, the primary reason for using metal is its density. Metals like brass provide the required mass in a compact form, which is essential for maintaining balance without making the weights too large or heavy. In some cases, a softer metal like lead was traditionally used for weights due to its high density, but concerns over toxicity have led to the use of safer, more environmentally friendly metals such as brass. Thus, density plays the most crucial role in selecting metals for balance weights.