Measuring density
I can measure the density of solids and liquids.
Measuring density
I can measure the density of solids and liquids.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Density is calculated using the equation: density = mass ÷ volume.
- The volume of water displaced by a submerged object is equal to the volume of the object.
- The dimensions of a regular cuboid can be measured accurately with Vernier callipers.
- The volume of a regular cuboid is calculated using the equation: volume = length × width × height.
Common misconception
Pupils confuse the mass or weight of an object with density.
Provide pupils with a range of objects of varying sizes that they are going to measure the density of. Before measuring density, ask the pupils to rank the objects in order of density with explanations. Compare results to the list after measurements.
Keywords
Density - The mass per cubic metre (m³) or cubic centimetre (cm³) of a material.
Displacement can - A can with a spout used to measure the volume of a submerged object.
Vernier callipers - A device used to measure length precisely.
Micrometer - A device to measure length to very high precision.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a small cube -
Vernier callipers
a key -
displacement can and measuring cylinder
a few millilitres of oil -
measuring cylinder only