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Density: Measurement And Common Materials

What is Density?

Density is a fundamental property of matter that describes the amount of mass contained in a given volume. It is a critical parameter in various scientific and technical applications that influences material selection and behaviour under different conditions.

Measurement of Density

Accurate measurement of density is indispensable in both the laboratory and industry. Several methods are typically used:

Mass and Volume Method

The simplest method to determine density involves measuring the mass and volume of an object and then applying the formula:

Density = Mass / Volume

Archimedes' Principle

In this method, an object is immersed in a fluid to determine its volume based on the displaced fluid; this volume is then used to compute the density.

Pycnometer Method

A pycnometer is a specialised container used to measure the density of liquids and solids with high precision by determining their volume through displacement.

Density of Common Materials

The following table summarises the density of common materials. Density is the mass per unit volume and is typically measured in grams per cubic centimetre (g/cm³) or kilograms per cubic metre (kg/m³).

For quick and straightforward results, try our density unit converter. Also visit our toolbox page for further useful tools.

Material

Density (g/cm³)

Density (kg/m³)

Remarks

Aluminium

2.70

2 700

Light; it is frequently used in the aerospace and automotive industries.

Copper

8.96

8 960

A heavy metal with high electrical conductivity.

Steel (Carbon Steel)

7.85

7 850

A common construction material; it is strong and durable.

Cast Iron

6.90

6 900

Used in high-load applications such as engine blocks.

Titanium

4.43

4 430

Strong, light and corrosion-resistant.

Stainless Steel (304)

7.93

7 930

Corrosion-resistant; used in food processing and marine environments.

Brass

8.50

8 500

An alloy of copper and zinc; used for sanitary and electrical applications.

Lead

11.34

11 340

Very dense; used in radiation shielding and batteries.

Tungsten

19.25

19 250

Extremely dense; used in high-temperature and radiation protection applications.

Nickel

8.90

8 900

Frequently used in alloys and as a coating for corrosion resistance.

Gold

19.32

19 320

A dense, highly valued precious metal.

Silver

10.49

10 490

A valuable metal used in jewellery and electronics.

Wood (Oak)

0.75-0.85

750-850

The density varies depending on the type of wood and moisture content.

Concrete

2.30

2 300

Density depends on the mix; used in construction.

Glass

2.40-2.80

2 400-2 800

Used for windows, containers and electronics.

Polyethylene (Plastic)

0.91-0.96

910-960

A light plastic commonly used in packaging.

Wood (Pine)

0.50-0.65

500-650

Lighter than oak; used in furniture and construction.

Carbon Fibre

1.60-2.00

1 600-2 000

A light, high-strength composite material.

Fibre Glass

2.50-2.70

2 500-2 700

A strong composite used in aerospace and shipbuilding.

Rubber

1.10-1.60

1 100-1 600

Used in tyres, seals and flexible components.

Silicon

2.33

2 330

Common in electronics and solar cells.

Beryllium

1.85

1 850

A light, high-strength material used in aerospace and nuclear applications.

Remarks: Materials with higher density (e.g. tungsten, lead) are generally used for applications that require mass or stability, whereas materials with lower density (e.g. aluminium, plastics) are preferred when weight reduction is important. Further advanced materials are available at Stanford Advanced Materials.

Applications of Density

Density plays a crucial role in several fields:

  • Engineering: Selection of materials with an appropriate density for structural components.
  • Geology: Identification of minerals and understanding geological formations.
  • Manufacturing: Ensuring material consistency and quality control.
  • Environmental Sciences: Assessment of pollutant distribution in air and water.

Factors That Influence Density

Several factors can influence a material's density:

  • Temperature: Generally, density decreases with increasing temperature due to thermal expansion.
  • Pressure: Increased pressure can compress materials, thereby increasing their density.
  • Composition: Intrinsic density is determined by the elemental composition and molecular structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula to calculate density?

Density is calculated by dividing an object's mass by its volume (Density = Mass / Volume).

Why is density important in material selection?

Density aids in determining the suitability of a material for specific applications based on weight and strength requirements.

How does temperature affect the density of liquids?

As temperature increases, liquids generally expand, which results in a decrease in density.

Can density be used to identify substances?

Yes, density is a unique property that can help in the identification and differentiation of substances.

What is the difference between mass and density?

Mass is the quantity of matter in an object, whereas density is the mass per unit volume of that object.

 

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About the author

Chin Trento

Chin Trento holds a bachelor's degree in applied chemistry from the University of Illinois. His educational background gives him a broad base from which to approach many topics. He has been working with writing advanced materials for over four years at Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM). His main purpose in writing these articles is to provide a free, yet quality resource for readers. He welcomes feedback on typos, errors, or differences in opinion that readers come across.

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