Why should scales and balances be calibrated after being moved?

Calibration of scales and balances after they have been moved is crucial to maintaining their precision. When these devices are relocated, their internal mechanisms can be affected by shifts or jolts that occur during transport. This may alter the alignment or position of the components that are essential for accurate measurements, thus potentially compromising the functionality of the scale or balance.

Additionally, while gravity is consistent across the globe, minor variations due to geographic location (such as altitude and local geological formations) may influence the measured weight. Scales and balances are often designed to be calibrated to the local gravitational field at the installation site; if they are moved, recalibrating ensures that they provide accurate readings specific to their new environment.

This combination of factors highlights the importance of recalibrating these instruments upon being moved, confirming the integrity and reliability of the measurements they provide. Therefore, the best answer encompasses the two key reasons: the impact on internal mechanisms and the potential variance in gravitational force.