Manning’s School Science Department

4th Form Physics Practical

Date: February __, 2022

Title: Density
Aim: To determine the density and relative density of an irregular solid
Apparatus/Materials:
Stone, water, displacement can, measuring cylinder, triple beam balance, cord or string

Procedure:
Think about the precautions you need to take before starting this practical
1. Find and record the mass, m, of the stone using the triple beam balance.
2. Fill the displacement on a level surface and allow the excess water to drain.
3. Place the spout into the measuring cylinder and gently lower the stone until it is
completely immersed in the water.
4. Determine the volume, V, of displaced water collected in the measuring cylinder.
Read the bottom of the meniscus at eye level. The cylinder should be on a flat, level
surface.
5. Repeat the procedure until a consistent answer for the volume is obtained.
Results & Calculations:
Record your results appropriately.
Use the data to calculate the density and relative density of the stone.
Discussion:
Use the following to help write your discussion
o What is density?
o Write the related formula to define density.
o What is relative density?
o Write a formula to calculate relative density.
o List the possible sources of error and limitations of the experiment
o How could the experiment be improved?
o What impact did the experiment have on you?