| 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? 
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: If you need a calculator one is available. Click
on calculator in right frame.
Please
enter your answer for Block II in the space provided:
If you need a calculator one is available. Click
on calculator in right frame.
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:
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and Math Activity Home Page
|
