Density

Mass/Volume Relationship

Density is another property of materials with which you need to be familiar. It is different than either mass or volume but it is related to both. (That is why this topic is in its own section, rather that under "Measurement" or "Calculations.")  In fact, it is the relationship between them. Density cannot be measured directly like mass and volume can. Instead it is calculated from measurements of mass and volume.

Consider two samples of iron--say a cast iron skillet and a nail. Both are made of roughly the same material. The skillet is many times larger in volume than the nail. It is also many times heavier in mass. Because there is more iron in the skillet it weighs more and it takes up more volume. Both mass and  volume are called extrinsic properties because their values depend on how much material is in the sample.

Top of Page

E-mail instructor: Eden Francis

Clackamas Community College
©1998, 1999, 2002, 2003 Clackamas Community College, Hal Bender, Eden Francis