Name: ________________ Partner: _____________________ Date: _____________________
SNC 1D
Density Lab
Introduction
Density is a measure of the amount of ________________ per unit _____________________ of a
substance. In this lab, you will measure the mass and the volume of the potato and then use a
mathematical formula to calculate the density of a whole, 1/2, and 1/4 of a potato.
Purpose
To determine the density of a potato, a half of a potato, and a quarter of a potato and comparing the
density values to each other.
Independent Variable (Set by the experimenter): ___________________________________________
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Dependent Variable (Measured variable): _________________________________________________
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Materials and Methods
Materials
-a potato
-overflow can
-water
-2 graduated cylinders
-triple beam balance
Methods
1. Find the mass of the potato by using the triple beam balance. Record this value in the table below.
2. Find the volume of the potato by using the overflow can and the graduated cylinder. Record this
value in the table below.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for 1/2 and 1/4 of the potato
4. Calculate the density for each portion of the potato. Make sure to show your work.
Observations
Qualitative observations
Answer the following questions for your qualitative observations:
1. Does the potato float (don’t explain why here)
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2. Describe the physical properties of your potato. Identify if there are any flaws in your potato (ie
soft spots, rotten parts, air pockets, dirt)
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Quantitative observation – fill in the following data table
Table 1. Mass and volume of potato portions
Portion Of Potato
Mass (g)
Whole
Volume (mL)
Half
One quarter
Calculations (Use the GRASP method)
Calculate the density of all three potato pieces. Ensure that you include units
Density of the potato:
Density of 1/2 the potato:
Density of 1/4 the potato:
Results Summary
1. Describe the results of the experiment in full sentences. Include both qualitative and quantitative
trends in the data. (Do not explain why here).
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Discussion
2. Did the potato float? Why? Why not?
3. Explain the results (consider how close density values are to each other)
4. State your conclusions about potato size and density. Explain your answer fully.
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(Continue on lined paper if needed)
Density Lab
Marking Scheme
Sections
Minimal
requirements
are met
Some of the
requirements
are met
Most of the
requirements
are met
All of the
requirements
are met
Weight
Communication
1x
Data Table
All values are included and
are clearly written
Results Summary
Qualitative and Quantitative.
results are described in
detail and full sentences
Proper Conventions
Units, format etc.
2x
1x
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Overall Communication
Inquiry
Two variables are correctly
identified
1x
Experimental technique as
described by the accuracy of
the results
Calculations
Correct calculation of
density with a work shown
Discussion
- discussed if potato floats
and explained why/why not
1x
Discussion
-attempted to explain the
results using scientific
reasoning.
- stated conclusions about
potato size and density and
explained answer fully
2x
Overall Inquiry
1x
1x
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