Understanding Density in Physical Sciences
Density is a fundamental property in the science category, defined as mass per unit volume. This chemistry solver allows you to calculate any of the three variables—density (ρ), mass (m), or volume (V)—provided the other two are known. It is a critical metric for identifying substances, determining purity, and design engineering.
Whether you are calculating the displacement of a submerged object or the weight of a chemical shipment, our science solver provides industry-standard accuracy. We support multiple units, from g/cm³ and kg/m³ to lb/ft³, ensuring compatibility with both metric and imperial workflows.
How to Calculate Density, Mass, and Volume
To use this science solver effectively, follow the standard rearranged formulas based on your target value:
- Solving for Density: ρ = m / V. Useful for characterizing new materials or checking solution concentration.
- Solving for Mass: m = ρ × V. Essential for determining the weight of a specific volume of liquid or gas.
- Solving for Volume: V = m / ρ. Used in container design and laboratory measurement planning.
Common Substance Densities (at 20°C)
| Substance | Density (g/cm³) | State |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Water | 1.00 | Liquid |
| Steel | 7.85 | Solid |
| Mercury | 13.53 | Liquid |
| Gold | 19.32 | Solid |
Reference values sourced from Britannica Science Database and NIST Standards.
Science FAQ
What is specific gravity?
Specific gravity is the ratio of a substance's density to the density of water. It is a dimensionless quantity widely used in brewing, battery testing, and geology.
How does temperature affect density?
Most substances expand as they get warmer, increasing volume and decreasing density. Water's anomaly at 4°C is a notable exception to this rule.