Final answer:
In chemistry lab work, the volume can be calculated using the formula V = m/D and the result should be rounded to the number of significant figures that matches the least precise measurement used. Check your unit conversions carefully and ensure the final volume is reasonable, using molar volume for gases at STP when appropriate.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Volume Calculation in Chemistry
When you're calculating the volume in a chemistry lab, it's important to make sure your units and conversions are correct. The formula for density is indeed D = m/v, where D represents density, m stands for mass, and v represents volume. If you're given the mass and need to find the volume, you can rearrange the formula to V = m/D.
Regarding significant figures, when you are performing any calculations, it is necessary to round your final answer to the same number of significant figures as the measurement with the least number of significant figures that you used in your calculation. If your density value is given to three significant figures and the mass value has four significant figures, your final volume should be reported with three significant figures.
If the calculated volume seems much larger or smaller than expected, it may be necessary to check your conversions (e.g., converting cm³ to mL or L, or vice versa). Remember that for gases, the molar volume at Standard Temperature and Pressure (STP) is 22.4 L/mol, and this can be used in conjunction with the ideal gas law when needed.
Always take a moment to verify that your calculated result is reasonable given the context of your problem. For instance, if you're dealing with a small amount of a substance at or near STP conditions, your calculated volume should be small in comparison to the molar volume of a gas, considering that a mole of any ideal gas occupies 22.4 L at STP.