Density


Measure the mass and volume of a variety of objects, then place them into a beaker of liquid to see if they float or sink. Learn to predict whether objects will float or sink in water based on their mass and volume. Compare how objects float or sink in a variety of liquids, including gasoline, oil, seawater, and corn syrup.

Screenshot of Density Gizmo

LESSON MATERIALS:

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

  • State the SI units used for mass and volume.
  • Measure the volumes of irregular objects using water displacement.
  • Discover that density can be measured.
  • Predict whether an object will float or sink by measuring its mass and volume.
  • Define the relationship among mass, volume, and density.
  • Calculate the densities of irregular objects.
  • Compare the densities of liquids.

VOCABULARY:

  • density, mass, matter, volume

User Testimonials

Critical Acclaim

  • Winner: Best K-12 Instructional Solution

    2009 SIIA CODiE Awards

  • Winner: Distinguished Achievement Award

    2008, 2007, 2005 AEP

  • Winner: Award of Excellence

    2008 Tech and Learning Magazine

  • Winner: Best Science Instruction Solution

    2007, 2006 SIIA CODiE Awards

  • Finalist: Golden Lamp Award

    2009, 2008, 2006 AEP

  • Finalist: Best Math Instructional Solution

    2009, 2008, 2006 SIIA CODiE Awards

  • Finalist: Best Instructional Solution, Science

    2009, 2008 SIIA CODiE Awards

  • Finalist: Best Instructional Solution, Online

    2006 SIIA CODiE Awards

  • Diamond Award in Mathematics

    District Administration Magazine

  • E-Learning Innovation Award

    Macromedia Corp.

  • Best Education Website

    Webby Awards

  • Three time Digital Dozen Honoree

    Eisenhower National Clearinghouse