Unknown Density Lab

Unknown Density Lab

Density tells us how heavy something is compared to its size. Some things are big and light—they have a small density. Some things are small and heavy—they have a large density. Anything that has a density less than water will float in water…..anything with a density greater than water will sink.

Determine the density of each unknown cube and tell whether or not it will sink or float based on your calculations. SHOW YOUR WORK!

Cube 1: Wooden Cube (lighter color)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 2: Wooden Cube

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 3: White Cube (PVC)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 4: Clear Cube (Acryllic)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 5: Shiny Metal Cube (Aluminum)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 6: Dark Gray Metal Cube (Iron)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 7: Gold Cube (Brass)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 8: Dark Gray Plastic Cube (Polypropylene)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Cube 9: Copper Colored Cube (Copper)

Mass: ______

Volume: ______

Density: ______

Sink or Float

Water

Mass: ______

Volume: 10 mL

Density: ______

Mass: ______

Volume: 5 mL

Density: ______
#1. How could you change an object’s density without changing the substance of the object?

#2. If you find the density of this paper, and then cut it into pieces, would they have the same density?

#3. If you found the density of a gun barrel, left the barrel outside for a month and returned to find the barrel rusted quite badly. If you found the density of it with the rust would it be the same as without rust? Please explain your reasoning!!!

#4. When choosing a metal to make bullets from, the US army looked at many of the physical properties of different metals before trying them. Density was one of the most important properties they looked at. Why do you think that is? Explain your thoughts.