Density Calculator
Density (ρ) = Mass (m) / Volume (V)
Grams (g)
Kilograms (kg)
Pounds (lb)
Cubic Centimeters (cm³)
Milliliters (mL)
Cubic Meters (m³)
Liters (L)
The calculated density is:
The Ultimate Guide to Calculating Density: A Worksheet Helper
Understanding how to calculate density is a fundamental skill in physics and chemistry. Density is a physical property of matter that expresses the relationship between mass and volume. It tells us how much "stuff" is packed into a specific amount of space.
What is the Density Formula?
To find the density of an object, you use the following mathematical equation:
Density (ρ) = Mass (m) ÷ Volume (V)
- Mass: The amount of matter in an object (usually measured in grams or kilograms).
- Volume: The amount of space an object occupies (usually measured in cubic centimeters, milliliters, or liters).
- Density: The mass per unit of volume (expressed as g/cm³, kg/m³, etc.).
How to Calculate Density Step-by-Step
If you are working through a calculating density worksheet, follow these simple steps to ensure accuracy:
- Measure the Mass: Use a balance or scale to find the mass of the object.
- Determine the Volume:
- For regular solids (like a cube), use a ruler and the formula Length × Width × Height.
- For irregular solids, use the water displacement method with a graduated cylinder.
- For liquids, simply measure using a graduated cylinder.
- Divide Mass by Volume: Plug your numbers into the formula.
- Check Your Units: Ensure your final answer includes the correct units, such as g/mL or kg/L.
Real-World Example Calculation
Let's look at a common problem you might find on a density worksheet:
Problem: A block of wood has a mass of 120 grams and a volume of 150 cm³. What is the density of the wood?
Solution:
1. Mass = 120g
2. Volume = 150 cm³
3. Density = 120 / 150
4. Density = 0.8 g/cm³
Note: Since the density is less than 1.0 g/cm³ (the density of water), this wood would float!
Solution:
1. Mass = 120g
2. Volume = 150 cm³
3. Density = 120 / 150
4. Density = 0.8 g/cm³
Note: Since the density is less than 1.0 g/cm³ (the density of water), this wood would float!
Common Densities for Reference
| Substance | Density (g/cm³) |
|---|---|
| Water | 1.00 |
| Gold | 19.30 |
| Aluminum | 2.70 |
| Iron | 7.87 |
| Ice | 0.92 |
Why Does Density Matter?
Density helps scientists identify unknown substances because every pure substance has a specific density. It also explains buoyancy—why some objects sink while others float. This principle is vital in engineering ships, airplanes, and even understanding weather patterns and ocean currents.