What is Density? Formula Density is equal to a substances mass divided by its volume. Density = Mass/Volume Mass = Density x Volume Volume = Mass/Density M V D Mass vs Weight Mass is a measurement of the amount of matter in an object. Weight is the measure of the force of gravity on an object. Mass is always constant where as weight varies by location. Calculating Mass In order to calculate an objects mass we will use a triple beam balance. Mass is measured in grams ( g ). Triple Beam Balance To calculate mass using a triple beam balance follow these steps: 1.Zero the scale by turning the knob under the pan. 2.Place the object on the tray. 3.Adjust the weights on the rider beams until the pointer lines up with the zero mark. How much mass do the riders indicate? Calculating Volume When using a graduated cylinder you must read the water level from the lowest level, the meniscus. Water Displacement When objects are placed in water they push the water around them. As a result they displace the water from its original position. Where have you seen this before? Water Displacement To use the graduated cylinder for calculating volume you must follow the steps below: 1.Fill the graduated cylinder to 50 mL. 2.Place an object inside the graduated cylinder. 3.Read the new measurement. 4.The difference in mL will be the volume of the object. Water Displacement Silver Tube: 29 mL 19 mL = 10 mL Bling Bling: 68 mL 64 mL = 4 mL 1 mL = 1 cm3 Density Facts Water has a density of 1.0 All matter has a density greater than zero If an object has a density greater than 1.0 the object will sink If an object has a density less than 1.0 the object will float If an objects density is close to zero ( ) the object will suspend.