Physics - Particles and Density

Vocabulary flashcards covering density formulas, state changes, particle arrangements, unit conversions, and required practical methods for regular solids, irregular solids, and liquids.

Density

The mass per unit volume of a material, calculated using the formula $\text{Density} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}$.

Standard Units of Density

Kilograms per cubic meter ($\text{kg/m}^3$), derived from mass in kilograms ($\text{kg}$) and volume in cubic meters ($\text{m}^3$).

Solid State

A state of matter that is rigid, has a fixed shape and fixed volume, cannot be squashed, and consists of low-energy particles vibrating around fixed positions in a regular pattern.

Liquid State

A state of matter that is not rigid, has no fixed shape but a fixed volume, cannot be squashed, and consists of close, randomly arranged particles moving around each other with greater energy than a solid.

Gas State

A state of matter that is not rigid, has no fixed shape or volume, can be squashed, and consists of far apart, randomly arranged particles moving quickly in all directions with the highest energy.

Sublimation

The direct change of state from a solid to a gas.

Deposition

The direct change of state from a gas to a solid.

Boiling Condition

The point at which vapor pressure equals atmospheric pressure, allowing bubbles to form within the liquid.

Eureka Can (Displacement Can)

A specialized container filled with water to the spout, used to determine the volume of an irregular solid by measuring the volume of water displaced when the object is submerged.

Meniscus

The curved upper surface of a liquid in a measuring cylinder, where eye level must be aligned to accurately measure volume.

Mass of Liquid Calculation

The net mass of a liquid determined using the equation $\text{Mass of liquid} = \text{filled mass} - \text{dry mass}$.

Density of Water

The standard density of pure water, given as $1\,\text{g/cm}^3$.

Density of Aluminium

A reference material density given as $2.7\,\text{g/cm}^3$.

Density of Copper

A reference material density given as $8.9\,\text{g/cm}^3$.

Precision Linear Measurement Tools

Instruments such as vernier calipers or micrometers used alongside rulers to measure the dimensions of regular objects.