Question

devise a way in which you can measure the density of a block of wood (density less than that of water). the only instruments that you have is a graduated cylinder, water, the given block of wood (that can go inside the graduated cylinder), and a pencil. we do not expect great accuracy, but the method should give a density within say 10% of the correct value.

Answer 1

To determine the density of a wood block, submerge it in water using a pencil to measure its displaced volume, then weigh it and divide the mass by this volume.

Step-by-step explanation:

To measure the density of a block of wood using a graduated cylinder, water, and a pencil, you can follow these steps:

1. Place the graduated cylinder on a flat surface and fill it with a known volume of water, recording the initial water level.
2. Carefully submerge the wood block in the water, ensuring it is fully submerged by using the pencil to hold it down. The wood will float, so pushing it down gently to avoid splashes is essential for an accurate measurement.
3. Record the new water level, and calculate the volume of the displaced water, which equals the volume of the wood block (final water level minus initial water level).
4. Remove the wood block and use a balance to measure its mass.
5. Divide the mass of the wood by its volume to find its density.

For example, if a wood block has a mass of 1.95 g and displaces 3.0 mL of water, its density would be 1.95 g / 3.0 mL = 0.65 g/mL.