How many ways can you determine density?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter MarchON
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for determining the density of objects, exploring both theoretical and practical approaches. Participants consider various techniques beyond the standard formula D=m/V, including indirect methods that do not require direct volume measurement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the formula D=m/V and mentions water displacement and the volume of a sphere as common methods for determining density.
  • Another participant suggests that understanding atomic structure could lead to determining specific gravity, implying a more theoretical approach.
  • A participant questions the necessity of measuring volume directly, asking why it poses a problem when mass can be measured easily.
  • One participant introduces the idea of using X-ray diffraction patterns to derive internuclear spacing, which could then be used to calculate density based on packing fractions and atomic masses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the necessity and feasibility of direct volume measurement, with some proposing alternative methods while others seek clarification on the challenges involved. No consensus is reached on the best approach to determine density.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the conditions under which density is measured are not fully explored, such as the implications of floating or sinking objects and the specific contexts in which alternative methods may apply.

MarchON
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D=m/V

I've know that there is water displacement for volume and also V=4/3πr2 (object is a ball)

Is there any other way to determine density that does not involve directly finding volume?
I figure that if the object floats (and is not hollow) it is less dense than water, and if it sinks it is more dense, but can I get exact numbers from a similar method to this?
 
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I suppose that you might be able to determine the atomic structure somehow (aside from looking it up, I mean). That should eventually lead to specific gravity.
 
MarchON said:
D=m/V

I've know that there is water displacement for volume and also V=4/3πr2 (object is a ball)

Is there any other way to determine density that does not involve directly finding volume?
I figure that if the object floats (and is not hollow) it is less dense than water, and if it sinks it is more dense, but can I get exact numbers from a similar method to this?

You haven't mentioned a problem measuring the mass of the ball. Why is measuring the volume of the ball a problem for you?
 
Danger said:
I suppose that you might be able to determine the atomic structure somehow (aside from looking it up, I mean). That should eventually lead to specific gravity.

X-ray diffraction patterns yield internuclear spacing in lattices which can be used to calculate densities from packing fractions for lattice types and atomic masses (from mass spectrometry).
 
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