Relative Density

Front

What is relative density?

Back

Relative density is a measure of how dense an object is compared to the density of a reference substance, usually water.

Front

Why do objects sink in water?

Back

Objects sink in water if they are more dense than water.

Front

Why do objects float in water?

Back

Objects float in water if they are less dense than water.

Front

What happens to a metal screw in water if it is denser than water?

Back

The metal screw will sink in water.

Front

What is density?

Back

Density is the mass of an object divided by its volume.

Front

How can you determine if an object will sink or float?

Back

You can determine if an object will sink or float by comparing its density to the density of water.

Front

What is the density of water?

Back

The density of water is approximately 1 gram per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) at 4°C.

Front

What does it mean if an object has the same density as water?

Back

If an object has the same density as water, it will neither sink nor float; it will remain suspended in the water.

Front

What is an example of an object that floats?

Back

A bobber floats because it is less dense than water.

Front

What is an example of an object that sinks?

Back

A rock sinks because it is more dense than water.