Final answer:
The density of a metal is determined by measuring its mass and volume, then dividing the mass by the volume. For irregularly shaped objects, volume is calculated by the displacement of water. Example: a rock that weighs 240 g and displaces 89 cm³ of water has a density of 2.70 g/cm³.
Step-by-step explanation:
The method used to determine the density of a metal involves first measuring the mass of the object, typically using a balance. The second step is to determine the volume of the object. This can be achieved indirectly through geometric measurements if the object has a regular shape, or more commonly by displacement of water, which is based on Archimedes' principle. For example, if a metal object is submerged in water, the volume of the water displaced will be equal to the volume of the object.
Once both mass and volume are found, the density is calculated by dividing the mass by the volume. To illustrate with an example, if a 240-g rock displaces 89.0 cm³ of water, the density is found by dividing 240 g by 89.0 cm³, resulting in approximately 2.70 g/cm³. This method is particularly useful in labs where precision instruments for direct volume measurement aren't available.