Measuring Density and Material Properties

Flashcards covering the methods for measuring the density of liquids and solids, and the results of density comparison investigations.

Density Formula

$$\text{density} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}$$

Liquid Density Measurement Method

A process involving weighing the liquid on a scale to find the mass in $g$, using a measuring cylinder to find the volume in $cm^3$, and dividing the mass by the volume.

Regularly Shaped Object Volume

Calculated by using a ruler to measure the width, length, and height, and then multiplying those three measurements together.

Irregularly Shaped Object Volume Method

A process where an object is placed in a measuring cylinder containing water; the volume is found by subtracting the first volume reading from the second volume reading.

Oil and Water Density Comparison

Oil is less dense than water, which causes it to float when the two are mixed.

Practical Investigation 6 Order

Materials of the same volume listed in order of increasing mass (and density): air, flour, water, and sand.

Sponge Density ($1\,cm^3$)

Mass is $0.7\,g$; it floats in water.

Polystyrene Density ($1\,cm^3$)

Mass is $0.5\,g$; it has the lowest density among the blocks tested and floats in water.

Wood Density ($1\,cm^3$)

Mass is $0.8\,g$; it floats in water.

Iron Density ($1\,cm^3$)

Mass is $7.9\,g$; it has the highest density among the blocks tested and sinks in water.

Zinc Density ($1\,cm^3$)

Mass is $7.1\,g$; it sinks in water.

Aluminium Density ($1\,cm^3$)

Mass is $2.7\,g$; it sinks in water.

Floating Rule

Objects with a lower density than water ($< 1\,g/cm^3$) will float.

Sinking Rule

Objects with a higher density than water ($> 1\,g/cm^3$) will sink.

Density of Water

$$1\,g/cm^3$$