Final answer:
To test the density of a material compared to water, you can use the water displacement method. The independent variable is the material being tested, the dependent variable is the density, and the hypothesis could be that materials with a density less than 1g/cm³ will float, while those with a density greater than 1g/cm³ will sink.
Step-by-step explanation:
To test whether a material has a density less than, greater than, or equal to water, you can conduct an investigation using the water displacement method. Here's how:
- Select a material you want to test for its density.
- Measure the mass of the material using a scale.
- Fill a graduated cylinder partially with water and record the initial volume.
- Slowly add the material to the cylinder, making sure it doesn't touch the sides.
- Record the final volume after the material has been added.
- Calculate the density of the material by dividing the mass by the change in volume.
The independent variable in this investigation is the material being tested, and the dependent variable is the density of the material. The hypothesis could be that if the density of the material is less than 1g/cm³, it will be less dense than water and float, while if the density is greater than 1g/cm³, it will be denser than water and sink.