Calculating Density
This page focuses on calculating density of solids and liquids, providing the formula and methods for determining density in different situations.
Definition: Density is how much mass a substance has per unit of volume, measured in kg/m³.
The equation for density is:
Density (kg/m³) = mass (kg) / volume (m³)
To find a solid's density:
- Measure the mass using a balance or scale.
- Determine the volume:
- For regular shapes, calculate length x width x height.
- For irregular shapes, use an eureka can and a measuring cylinder.
To find a liquid's density:
- Place a measuring jug on a scale and pour the liquid in.
- Record the mass.
- Note the volume from the measuring jug.
Example: To calculate the density of a rectangular block of wood measuring 10 cm x 5 cm x 2 cm and weighing 100 grams:
- Mass = 100 g = 0.1 kg
- Volume = 10 cm x 5 cm x 2 cm = 100 cm³ = 0.0001 m³
- Density = 0.1 kg / 0.0001 m³ = 1000 kg/m³
