The dictionary tells you that 'gross' means 'total, without deduction' whereas 'net' means 'remaining after all deduction'. The term 'weight' is commonly used in the place of 'mass'. However, there is a difference between the two. The term 'mass' is the measure of the amount of matter . So, 'mass' is a more accurate term to use. We purchase flour, sugar, and cheese by the gram or kilogram. These are units of mass. Thus, 'net weight' means 'the mass of the product without the can or wrapping'. What would be the meaning of 'gross weight'?
Below are examples of some products with the net weights showing on the containers.
Peanut
butter of Brand A
Mac & Cheese Brand A
For your activity in class, you can check if different companies were accurate in their measurements of their products. Bring in several products that you want to test and record your data. Print the following format for recording the data. On the recording sheet are listed some products. If the products you want to test are listed, you can go ahead and fill out the measured data. If not, use the empty spaces to write the products you have chosen.