Required practical - determining density

• It's important to:

  • Record the mass accurately
  • Measure and observe the mass and the bigger volume of the different objects
  • Use appropriate apparatus and methods to measure volume and mass and use that to investigate density
• Method 1 : regular solids

  1. Use a ruler to measure the length, width and height of a steel cube
  2. Place the steel cube on the top pan balance and measure it's mass
  3. Calculate the volume of the cube
  4. Use the measurements to calculate the density of the metal
  5. Use vernier callipers to measure the diameter of the sphere
  6. Place the metal sphere on the top pan balance and measure it's mass
  7. Calculate the volume of the sphere
  8. Use the measurements to calculate the density of the metal
• Method 2 : stone or other irregular shaped object

  1. Place the stone on a top pan balance and measure it's mass
  2. Fill the displacement can until the water is level with the bottom of the pipe
  3. Place a measuring cylinder under the pipe ready to collect the displaced water
  4. Carefully drop the stone into the can and wait until no more water runs into the cylinder
  5. Measure the volume of the displaced water
  6. Use the measurements to calculate the density of the stone
• Method 3 : water or any liquid

  1. Place the measuring cylinder on the top pan balance and measure it's mass
  2. Pour 50cm^3 of water into the measuring cylinder and measure it's new mass
  3. Subtract the mass in Step 1 from the mass in Step 2. This is the mass of 50cm^3 of water
  4. Use the measurements to calculate the density of the water
• Hazards and control measures

  • Hazard = water spilled from displacement can
  • Consequence = slip and fall
  • Control measures = use a measuring cylinder to collect displaced water and prevent spills