A student wants to find the density of an irregularly shaped stone. Describe how the student would find the volume of the stone and then use this, along with a measurement of its mass, to determine the density of the stone.

Cambridge International IGCSE Physics (0625) — 1.4 Density · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

1. Place the stone in a measuring cylinder that contains a known volume of water.
2. Record the initial water level and then the new level after the stone is submerged.
3. The rise in the water level gives the volume of the stone.
4. Measure the mass of the stone with a balance.
5. Calculate the density using ρ = mass ÷ volume.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word ‘rise’ to show the change in water level.
  • Show the formula ρ = m/V and state units (kg/m³).

Common mistakes

  • Failing to mention the rise in water level as the stone’s volume.
  • Using the wrong units for density (e.g. g/mL instead of kg/m³).

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Place the stone into a measuring cylinder containing a known volume of water
  2. Volume of stone equals the rise in water level (the increase in the reading on the measuring cylinder)
  3. Measure the mass of the stone using a balance
  4. Density is calculated by dividing the mass of the stone by its volume

Key terms in this question

density · volume · mass

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