Primer on Density and Volume

An analytical balance measures the mass of an object which in turn helps in calculating the density of the object

An analytical balance measures the mass of an object which in turn helps in calculating the density of the object

Density and Volume are two critical concepts for anyone working the lab.  Usually this is taken for granted when you move on to more complex experiments.  For those who have some doubts about these two aspects this primer document explains the basic methods used to determine density and volume of various objects and then provides instructions for experiments that can be used to experimentally understand these concepts.  The essential procedure for determining density is simple. Calculate the mass of the object (usually using an analytical balance) and then divide it by its volume.  This will give you density.  There are of course various use cases where the mass and volume are not directly measurable and you will need to use indirect means.  The document touches on these aspects as well.

For further information visit carbon.indstate.edu.

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About Bob Sandor

Bob began working as a chemist in 1987 and remains a science geek to this day. After his PhD he worked on the bench in materials and inorganic chemistry for 10 years. He then took on a love for marketing and sales. He combined his passion for science and business and took entrepreneur general management positions in large corporations like Hoecsht Celanese now Sanofi Aventis, Bel-Art and Smiths Detection. There he learned what it would take to run a business and finally Tovatech was co-founded in 2006. Bob’s hobbies include playing, listening and composing music, skiing, working out, the internet and all things science. Read More