BECA1023 Chemistry

Experiment 2: Density

Density of coins

Introduction
In the previous experiment, students have been introduced on measuring of certain
base units of coins using a metric ruler as a measurement tool, to a correct
significant figure. From the measurement, students can derive the units to calculate
the density of the coins. A genuine coin is made of the correct type and density of
metal. Coins produced completely of the right metal or alloy will differ in weight and
density. Therefore, the density of the coins may be used to test the authenticity of
the coins.
In this activity, students will be introduced to the concept of density. Density is the
amount of mass per unit volume. Density(d)= Mass(m)/Volume(V). Mass of the
coins may be derived from the previous experiment. Coins’ volume may be
calculated by treating the coins as standard cylinders, the volume formula is, V =
πr2h (V= volume, r=radius, h=weight). Density is temperature-sensitive, because
the volume that a sample occupies can change with temperature. Densities are often
given with the temperature at which they were measured. If not, assume a
temperature of about 25oC.

Objectives
1. To understand the concept of density including the Archimedes Principle density.
2. To calculate the density of coins.
3. To discuss the importance of the concept of density in agriculture.

Materials
 Metric ruler
 Analytical balance
 Malaysia’s latest coins (50, 20, 10
and 5 cents) Source:
 Calculator BNM
website
 BECA1023 Chemistry

Procedures
1. Record the mass of the coins to the correct unit in the table in the results section.
2. Record the radius (diameter/2) and height (thickness) of the coins to the correct
unit in the table in the results section.
3. Calculate the volume of the coins to the correct unit in the table in the results
section.
4. Calculate the density of the coins to the correct unit in the table in the results
section.

Results
Coins

Mass (g)

Radius (cm)

Height (cm)

Volume (cm3)

Density (g/cm3)

Discussion
1. List the coins from the least dense to the most dense coin. Do you expect this,
and why?

2. Density is also calculated from the concept of Archimedes Principle. Explain this
concept.

3. Describe the use of the concept of an object’s density in agriculture. Please

provide one example.