Density is a measure of mass per unit volume. It is typically expressed in units such as grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) or kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³).
congrats on reading the definition of density. now let's actually learn it.
Density is calculated using the formula $\rho = \frac{m}{V}$, where $\rho$ is density, $m$ is mass, and $V$ is volume.
The density of a substance can help identify it, as different materials have characteristic densities.
Temperature and pressure can affect the density of a substance; typically, increasing temperature decreases density while increasing pressure increases density.
Water has a maximum density at 4°C, which is approximately 1 g/cm³.
Density plays a crucial role in buoyancy; an object will float in a fluid if its density is less than that of the fluid.
Review Questions
What formula is used to calculate the density of an object?
How does temperature generally affect the density of most substances?
Why does an object with lower density than water float when placed in water?
Related terms
Mass: The quantity of matter in an object, usually measured in grams or kilograms.
Volume: The amount of space occupied by an object or substance, typically measured in liters or cubic meters.
Buoyancy: The ability or tendency of an object to float in a fluid due to differences in density.