Density

Density is defined as the mass of a substance per unit volume. It is a scalar quantity and its SI
unit is kg/m3.
mass
density =
volume

Measuring Density
Density of a Liquid
Measure the mass of the dry beaker (m1) using an electronic balance. Add the liquid into the
beaker and read its volume (V). Now measure the mass of the beaker plus liquid (m2). The
mass of the liquid is m= m2-m1. Use the formula density=mass/volume to calculate the density
of the liquid.

Density of a Regularly Shaped Solid

Measure the mass of the solid using an electronic balance (m). Use an appropriate tool (vernier
caliper, ruler) to measure the dimensions of the solid. Use the relevant formula to calculate the
volume (V) of the solid depending on the shape.
Lastly use the formula density=mass/volume to calculate the density of the solid.

Density of an Irregularly Shaped Solid

Measure the mass of the solid using an electronic balance (m). Add the liquid into the beaker
and read its volume (V1). Now add the solid to the beaker and read the increased volume (V2).
The volume of the solid is calculated as V= V2-V1. Use the formula density=mass/volume to
calculate the density of the solid.