Density — Science definition

Defined in 5 courses:

Mass per unit volume under stated conditions. (Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems)
Individuals per unit area; mean count per quadrat divided by quadrat area, then multiplied by habitat area to estimate a total. (Life Science & Scientific Inquiry)
A physical property found by dividing an object's mass by its volume (density = mass ÷ volume). (Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy)
Mass divided by volume. (Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy)
Mass per unit volume, usually g/mL for liquids or g/cm³ for solids. (Physical Science: Chemistry)

Where it is taught

Physical Properties & Physical Changes — Matter, Mixtures & Water Properties, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
Sampling Ecosystems & Comparing Evidence — Ecological Evidence & Environmental Design, Life Science & Scientific Inquiry, Grade 7
Physical vs. Chemical Properties — Properties of Matter, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
Density & Floating — Properties of Matter, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
Measurement, Units & Experimental Evidence — Investigating Matter, Physical Science: Chemistry, Grade 11

In use

What a quadrat gives you is density: individuals per unit area.
Sampling Ecosystems & Comparing Evidence

Color, hardness, texture, melting point, boiling point, and density (mass ÷ volume) are all physical properties.
Physical vs. Chemical Properties

Samples of the same uniform substance have approximately the same density at the same temperature and pressure.
Density & Floating

Questions using density

Problem 1

What is the larger piece’s density if it is 60 g and 20 cm³?

Answer and explanation

60 ÷ 20 = 3 g/cm³; size changed but the ratio stayed the same.

Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.

Problem 2

Develop a complete response: Calculate density and explain why the shape change is physical under the stated model. Include relevant evidence and one method or model limit.

Answer and explanation

48 ÷ 24 = 2 g/cm³. Reshaping changes outline while the modeled material and measured mass/volume remain. It is described as physical because no new substance is formed in this model, not simply because the shape might be restored.

Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.

Problem 3

Which statement correctly uses density in Physical Properties & Physical Changes?

One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Every change that is hard to reverse must be chemical.
The largest sample must have the greatest density.
density: Mass per unit volume under stated conditions.

Answer and explanation

density: Mass per unit volume under stated conditions.

Mass per unit volume under stated conditions. 48 ÷ 24 = 2 g/cm³. Reshaping changes outline while the modeled material and measured mass/volume remain. It is described as physical because no new substance is formed in this model, not simply because the shape might be restored.

Problem 4

Without opening guidance: What is the larger piece’s density if it is 60 g and 20 cm³?

Answer and explanation

60 ÷ 20 = 3 g/cm³; size changed but the ratio stayed the same.

Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.

Taught alongside

Elsewhere

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