Name: _____________________________________________________
Period: ______
Density Experiment
Background Information: Density is defined as the amount of mass per unit of volume. In
other words, it’s how much matter occupies a specific amount of space. The more matter in that
space, the greater the density. Density is calculated by dividing mass by volume. Mass must be
measured in grams, and volume is measured in milliliters (mL) for liquids, and cubic
centimeters (cm3) for solids. Therefore, density is measured in grams/milliliter (gm/mL) or
grams per cubic centimeters (gm/ cm3).
Water has a density of 1 gm/mL. If an object has a density less than a fluid it is in, the
object will float. Boats and life preserves have a density less than water, so they float. If an
object has a density greater than the fluid it is in, the object will sink. Rocks and anchors have a
density greater than water, so they sink.
Objective: To calculate the density of various objects and materials.
Materials:
3 plastic blocks
lead sinker
rubber stopper
cork stopper
metric ruler
balance scale
electronic scale
graduated cylinder
Procedure:
1. Obtain 3 different numbered plastic blocks. Record the block number and color of the blocks
in the data table.
2. Use either the balance scale or electronic scale to measure the mass of the blocks. Record the
mass in the data table.
3. Use a metric ruler to measure the dimensions of the blocks. Record these values in the data
table.
4. Calculate the volume of the blocks using the equation length x width x height. Round
calculations to the hundredth significant digit. Record the volume in the data table with the
appropriate units.
5. Calculate the density of the plastic blocks, and record in the data table with appropriate units.
6. Obtain the lead sinker, rubber stopper, and cork stopper. Measure the mass of each item
using the balance scale or electronic scale. Record these values in the data table.
7. Determine the volume of these items using the water displacement method. Record these
values in the data table.
8. Calculate the density of these objects, and record in the data table with appropriate units.
Name: _____________________________________________________
Period: ______
Data Table:
Item
Color
Mass
Length
Width
Heigth
Volume
Denisty
Questions:
1. Calculate the density of the objects on a separate piece of paper. Make sure every number has
its appropriate unit.
2. Based upon your calculations, which blocks will float in water, and which ones will sink?
Support your answer with data calculated.
3. List in order from least dense to most dense the objects in this experiment.
4. How do the densities of the three blocks compare?