Section 5: Solids, liquids, and gases

DENSITY

Density = mass/volume (g/cm^3or kg/m^3

To determine the density of a regularly shaped solid, find the mass of it by weighing it. Then measure the length, width and height (volume = l x w x h) to find the volume. However if it is irregular, slowly lower the object in a displacement can using string, and measure the amount of water displaced. 

To determine the density of a fluid (liquid or gas), place a measuring cylinder on a weighing scale and tare it. Pour the fluid in, and record the mass and volume simultaneously. 

PRESSURE

Pressure = force/area (Pa - 1N/1m^2)

Pressure is the force exerted by a body onto another surface. In a solid or fluid at rest, pressure is equally exerted in all directions. 

Pressure difference (Pa) = density (kg/m^3) x gravitational force (10N/kg) x height (m) 

CHANGE OF STATE

When a solid is melting, it absorbs energy, which makes the particles move faster and faster, until they break out…