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mechanical balance

[mə-ˈka-ni-kəl ˈba-ləns]
nounpl: mechanical balances
balança mecânica
1. A device that uses mechanical principles to measure the weight or mass of an object by comparing it to known weights
The laboratory uses a mechanical balance to weigh chemical compounds.
O laboratório usa uma balança mecânica para pesar compostos químicos.
2. A state of equilibrium in a mechanical system where forces and torques are balanced
The mechanical balance of the bridge was carefully engineered to support heavy loads.
O equilíbrio mecânico da ponte foi cuidadosamente projetado para suportar cargas pesadas.
3. A traditional scale with a fulcrum and two arms used to determine if weights are equal
She placed the unknown object on one side of the mechanical balance.
Ela colocou o objeto desconhecido em um lado da balança mecânica.
Synonyms
balance scalebeam balancetwo-pan balance
Antonyms
digital scaleelectronic balance

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
balança mecânica
Most common term used in Brazil
São Paulo
balança de pratos
Alternative term emphasizing the two pans
Portugal
balança mecânica
Standard term used in European Portuguese

Related Idioms & Phrases

strike a balance - encontrar um equilíbrio
hang in the balance - estar em suspenso
tip the balance - inclinar a balança
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