GlossariesGCSE GlossariesGCSE Physics GlossaryDensity

Density - GCSE Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Leander Oates

Published

What is density?

In GCSE Physics, density is a measure of how much mass is contained in a given volume of a substance. The units of density are kilograms per metre cubed (kg divided by straight m cubed).

Density is calculated using the following equation:

rho space equals fraction numerator space m over denominator V end fraction

Where:

  • rho (the Greek letter rho) = density, measured in kilograms per metre cubed (kg divided by straight m cubed)

  • m = mass, measured in kilograms (kg)

  • V = volume, measured in metres cubed (straight m cubed)

Understanding density is important in GCSE Physics as it helps explain why some objects float while others sink. High-density materials have more mass packed into a given volume than low-density materials.

Explore GCSE Physics Revision Resources

Examiner-written GCSE Physics revision resources that improve your grades 2x

  • Written by expert teachers and examiners
  • Aligned to exam specifications
  • Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
GCSE Physics revision resources

Share this article

Leander Oates

Reviewer: Leander Oates

Expertise: Senior Physics Content Creator

Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now