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Density

Density is a measure of how much mass an object has per unit volume.

Density

Density

  • Density is a measure of how much mass an object has per unit volume.
  • Density can be used to determine how heavy an object is based on its volume.
Calculating density

Calculating density

  • Density can be calculated using the formula:
    • ρ = mV\frac{m}{V}
      • ρ (Rho) is the density of the material.
      • m is the mass of the object.
      • V is the volume of the object.
Units of density

Units of density

  • Density will be measured in a unit which specifies mass divided by volume:
    • The most common is kgm-3 (kilograms per cubic metre).

Density - Example

This baby elephant has a higher density than water, so sinks...

Calculating Density

To find out the density (density=mass/volume) of an object, we measure its mass and volume. We can measure the mass of an object using a balance (scales). We can calculate the density of:

Liquids

Liquids

  • To measure the density of liquids, place a measuring cylinder on a balance and set the reading to zero.
  • Pour the liquid into the cylinder and write down its mass and volume. Then calculate the density.
Irregularly shaped solids

Irregularly shaped solids

  • For solids, we can use the Law of Displacement to estimate its volume.
  • This is done using a displacement can, or a graduated measuring cylinder.
  • The volume of displaced water is measured, and this is the volume of the object.
Jump to other topics
1

Principles of Science I

1.1

Structure & Bonding

1.2

Properties of Substances

1.3

Cell Structure & Function

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Cell Specialisation

1.5

Tissue Structure & Function

1.6

Working with Waves

1.7

Waves in Communication

2

Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques

3

Science Investigation Skills

4

Principles of Science II

4.1

Extracting Elements

4.2

Relating Properties to use of Substances

4.3

Organic Chemistry

4.4

Energy Changes in Industry

4.5

The Circulatory System

4.6

Ventilation & Gas Exchange

4.7

Urinary System

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Cell Transport

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Thermal Physics

4.10

Materials

4.11

Fluids

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Contemporary Issues in Science

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