To determine the density of an irregular solid such as a stone, you can use the method of water displacement. Here's an experiment to help you measure the density:
Materials needed:
- Irregular solid (stone)
- Graduated cylinder
- Water
- Triple beam balance or electronic scale
- Paper towels
Procedure:
Start by measuring the initial volume of water in the graduated cylinder. Record this value.
Use the triple beam balance or electronic scale to measure the mass of the stone. Record this value as well.
Carefully lower the stone into the graduated cylinder filled with water. Make sure the stone is fully submerged in the water without touching the sides or bottom of the cylinder. Allow any air bubbles to escape.
Measure the new volume of water in the graduated cylinder, taking into account the displacement caused by the stone. Record this value.
Remove the stone from the graduated cylinder and dry it using paper towels to remove any excess water.
Calculations:
Calculate the volume of the stone by subtracting the initial volume of water from the final volume of water (volume of water displaced by the stone).
Volume of Stone = Final Volume - Initial Volume
Calculate the density of the stone using the formula:
Density = Mass of Stone / Volume of Stone
Make sure the mass is in the same units as the volume (e.g., grams and cubic centimeters).
Calculate and record the density of the stone.
Note: Ensure that your measurements are as accurate as possible to obtain a more precise density value. Repeat the experiment multiple times with different stones to compare the densities and check for consistency.
Remember, density is mass per unit volume, so the units for density are typically grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) or kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³), depending on the units used for mass and volume in your measurements.