Difference Between Fl Oz vs Oz
Measurement is the quantification of length, size, volume, or amount of any object or matter present. By measuring things, we are able to make accurate representations of anything around us. Measurement is especially helpful in science experiments, cooking, and baking, but we can pretty much quantify any everyday objects.
There are several ways, methods, and materials that we utilize to weigh things. Here we will discuss two examples of measurement units that we commonly use — fluid ounce and ounce. If you want to determine the difference between ounce vs fluid ounce, read on so that we can tell you all you need to know.
Definition of Fl Oz
A fluid ounce is defined as a unit of measurement that quantifies the capacity or volume of liquid. This is a standard way of weighing different types of liquid or liquid forms such as water, beverages, wine, etc. The contrast between fl oz vs oz is simple, but first let us tell you more about fl oz.
A fluid ounce is categorized as either US customary fluid ounce or imperial fluid ounce. The difference between the two is that a US customary fl oz is equal to 1/128th of a US gallon, which is also equal to 1/32nd of a US quart and equivalent to 1/8th of a US cup. The imperial fl oz is equal to 1/160th of an imperial gallon or 1/40th of an imperial quart and 1/10th of an imperial cup.
Liquid measuring cups are usually made in the form of glass or plastic containers that come with a handle in order to easily scoop liquid without spilling over. Still confused? To put it simply, a fluid ounce refers to how much liquid fits into a medicine cup.
Definition of Oz
Ounce is a standard unit of measurement that is used to quantify weight. The most common method of measuring ounces is through a weighing scale. The term ounce originated from the Latin word “uncia,” which means a “twelfth part.” Measuring in ounces is traditionally used in baking or cooking if the ingredients are weighed, such as baking soda, sugar, flour, butter, etc.
There are two main types of ounce measurements. These measurements are called the troy ounce, which is used to calculate the mass or weight of precious metals like gold or silver, and the avoirdupois ounce, which is utilized to measure everything else.
For example, people who need to quantify portions of their food can weigh these portions through ounces. If you want to visualize exactly what an ounce looks like, just reach for your favorite slice of bread!
Main Differences Between Fl Oz vs Oz
The quantification of specific objects or items can be quite confusing and difficult at times since there are lots of methods and terms used for measurement. It also depends on the type of item or object that you have on hand.
For a better understanding and to help you determine the difference between fluid oz and oz, we have created a table to enumerate the definitions, different properties, and uses so that you will not make mistakes.
Basis of Comparison | Fluid Ounce | Ounce |
Definition | A fluid ounce is a standard unit of measurement for the volume of liquids | An ounce quantifies or measures the mass or weight of an object |
Utilized for | Usually measures all types of liquid such as water, wine, liquid chemicals, etc. | Food portions or any other solid or dry objects |
Type of measurement | Fluid/liquid | Dry/solid |
Abbreviation | fl oz | oz |
Difference Between Fl Oz vs Oz: Conclusion
In summary, both science experiments and cooking or baking share the same principle; this principle is that everything has to have exact measurements to get accurate results. And although these two types of measurements share almost the same name and abbreviation, oz vs fl oz cannot be interchanged since they quantify two very different things, volume and weight.
So, to avoid any confusion or undesired results, just remember that fluid ounces measure all liquids, while ounces quantify mostly solid or dry objects. Make sure to know the distinctions between the two so that you do not misuse them.