How to Calculate the Density of a Solid

Take a look at the two boxes below. Each box has the same volume. If each ball has the same mass, which box would weigh more? Why?

which object has a higher density?


The box that has more balls has more mass per unit of volume. This property of matter is called density. The density of a material helps to distinguish it from other materials. Since mass is usually expressed in grams and volume in cubic centimeters, density is expressed in grams/cubic centimeter.

The box that has more balls has more mass per unit of volume. This property of matter is called density. The density of a material helps to distinguish it from other materials. Since mass is usually expressed in grams and volume in cubic centimeters, density is expressed in grams/cubic centimeter.



We can calculate density using the formula:

Density= Mass/Volume


In the previous lesson you calculated the mass and volume of two blocks. If you would like to review these sections click on the appropriate links shown at the left.

Block I

Mass = 79.4 grams

Volume=29.8 cubic cm.


Block II:

Mass= 25.4 grams

Volume=29.8 cubic cm.


Now Let's calculate the density for each of these blocks.

Please enter your answer for Block I in the space provided:


grams/cubic cm.


 

Please enter your answer for Block II in the space provided:


grams/cubic cm.

What is each block made of?

Using the table below it is now possible for you to determine what substance makes up each block.

The densities for some common substances are:

Substance Density (gm/cu.cm)
Air 0.0013
Wood (oak) 0.85
Water 1.00
Ice 0.93
Aluminum 2.7
Lead 11.3
Gold 19.3
Ethanol 0.94
Methanol 0.79

Block I is made of:


Block II is made of :


Go to Density of a Liquid Or search for more specific information on Mass -- Density -- Volume

- - -Or return to the Science and Math Activity Home Page

 

Mass Volume Density Activities

Mass:   Learn how to measure the mass of an object using a triple beam balance

Mass vs. Weight:    Mass and weight are often confused by many students. Learn the difference and try some challenging problems.

Volume:   Measure volume using a graduated cylinder.

Density of a Solid:   Learn to calculate the density of an unknown solid from knowing its mass and volume.     

Density of a Liquid:   Learn to calculate the density of an unknown liquid from knowing its mass and volume using a graduated cylinder and triple beam balance. Learn what a hydrometer is, and what it can do.

Density Challenge:   Great page for gifted and talented students! Some excellent challenging problems.

Assessment:   Twenty questions on mass, volume and density (two levels of difficulty). Your test is marked online. 

Science Project Ideas:   Ideas for science projects using mass, volume and density concepts learned from this module. 

Mass Volume Density Lab Exercise: Problem: What is the relationship between water pressure and depth of water? 

An Integrated Math Science and Art  (STEAM) Activity- Mass, Volume Density Activity using the Gates Project from Central Park NYC.