Final answer:
The same symbol 'm' is used to represent both meters, the unit of length, and mass in scientific formulas. However, the context defines its meaning - 'm' for meters in measurement contexts, and 'm' for mass in equations where mass is generally measured in grams or kilograms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question is option a): The same symbol is used for both. In the context of units of measure, the symbol 'm' stands for meters, which is the base unit for length in the International System of Units (SI). A meter is a measure of distance, and it is longer than a foot—approximately the same as a yard. The International System of Units uses the letter 'm' as the abbreviation for the meter, one of the four fundamental SI units.
On the other hand, in formulas relating to physics and chemistry, 'm' often represents mass. However, it is the context, as well as the standard unit of mass in the metric system which is kilogram (kg), that differentiates the meaning. When used in equations and scientific expressions, mass is typically measured in grams (g) or kilograms (kg). Therefore, although the symbol 'm' is used to denote both meters and mass, it is the context in which it appears that provides clarity to its meaning.