# A.2.2: Additional Information on Loads

Karamba3D expects all force-definitions to be in kilo Newton ($$kN$$). On earth the mass of$$100kg$$corresponds to a weight force of roughly $$1 kN$$. A more exact number would be $$0.981 kN$$ but $$1 kN$$ is normally accurate enough. Table [A.2.3.1](https://manual-2.karamba3d.com/appendix/a.4.3-tips-for-designing-statically-feasible-structures#table-a-2-3-1-specific-weights-of-some-building-materials) contains the specific weight of some everyday materials. Rules of thumb numbers for loads can be found in table [A.2.3.2](https://manual-2.karamba3d.com/appendix/a.4.3-tips-for-designing-statically-feasible-structures#table-a-2-3-2-loads-for-typical-scenarios). Do not take these values too literally. For example snow loads vary strongly depending on the geographical situation. Loads acting along lines or on a specified area can be approximated by point-loads. All you need to do is estimate the area or length of influence for each node and multiply it with the given load value. The Mesh-Load-component (see section [3.2.1](https://manual-2.karamba3d.com/3-in-depth-component-reference/3.2-load/3.2.1-loads#mesh-load-const-and-variable)) automates this task for surface loads.