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Last exams 2024

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Density (CIE AS Physics)

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Katie M

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Katie M

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Density

  • Density is the mass per unit volume of an object
    • Objects made from low-density materials typically have a lower mass
    • For example, a balloon is less dense than a small bar of lead despite occupying a larger volume

  • The units of density depend on the units used for mass and volume:
    • If the mass is measured in g and volume in cm3, then the density will be in g / cm3
    • If the mass is measured in kg and volume in m3, then the density will be in kg / m3

Density equation, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Density comparison, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Gases are less dense than a solid

  • The volume of an object may not always be given directly, but can be calculated with the appropriate equation depending on the object’s shape

Volume of shapes, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Volumes of common 3D shapes

Worked example

A paving slab has a mass of 73 kg and dimensions 40 mm × 500 mm × 850 mm.

Calculate the density, in kg m-3 of the material from which the paving slab is made.WE - Density question image, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

WE - Density answer image, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Examiner Tip

  • When converting a larger unit to a smaller one, you multiply (×)
    • E.g. 125 m = 125 × 100 = 12 500 cm

  • When you convert a smaller unit to a larger one, you divide (÷)
    • E.g. 5 g = 5 / 1000 = 0.005 or 5 × 10-3 kg

  • When dealing with squared or cubic conversions, cube or square the conversion factor too
    • E.g. 1 mm3 = 1 / (1000)3 = 1 × 10-9 m3
    • E.g. 1 cm3 = 1 / (100)3 = 1 × 10-6 m3

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.