Density of Solids

After reading the book Archimedes Takes a Bath, by Joan Lexau we decided to do some density experiments. In the book Archimedes is challenged to determine whether or not the kings goldsmith stole some of the gold he was given to make a new crown. Throughout the story Archimedes is often so focused on his work he forgets to do normal things like eat and bathe. A young boy even has the job of ensuring Archimedes takes care of himself. During the course of the entertaining story he eventually discovers the key to determining if the gold was stolen. - Density.

Density is mass divided by volume - d=m/V - It's simple to measure and calculate. We determined the density of pennies, dry beans, glass and an orange.

First the objects were weighed to determine their mass in grams. Then they were submerged in water to determine their volume in milliliters (ml). The volume of liquid was measured alone, and then with the solid. The two numbers were subtracted to determine the volume of the solid alone. One milliliter is equal to one cubic centimeter. The density of water is one g/cm^3.

Next the mass was divided by volume. We found that pennies were the most dense object we measured. Doing this hands-on experiment was simple, fun, and effective. Now the age old question of "What weighs more a pound of cotton or a pound of bricks?" has a little more meaning.

This post is linked to:
Love2learn
Manic Monday
Montessori Monday
Monday Kid Corner
Relentlessly Fun
Adventures in Mommydom
Hip Homeschool Hop