Determination of the density of solid by using a spring balance and a measuring cylinder
Aim
To determine the density of solid (denser than water) by using a spring balance and a measuring cylinder.
Materials Required
Spring balance, measuring cylinder, water, solid body (denser than water)
Theory
The density of a substance is defined as its mass per unit volume.
i.e., Density =
S.I. unit of volume:- Kg/m3
Procedure
- Firstly find the least count and zero error of spring balance.
- Suspend the given solid body from the hook of the spring balance and find out the true weight of the solid body. Let it be m gf. Therefore, mass of the given solid body is m g.
- Take the measuring cylinder and half fill it with water. Note the initial reading of the cylinder.
- Gently immerse the given solid body completely in water and note the final reading of cylinder.
- Repeat the steps 3 and 4 thrice and calculate the mean of the three observations taken.

Observation
Least count of spring balance = 5 gf
Zero error of spring balance = ± 0 gf
Weight of solid body in air = 20 gf
Mass of solid body in air = 20 g
S. No. | Initial volume of water (V1) | Final volume of water (V2) | Volume of solid (V2– V1) |
1. | 155 ml | 162.5 ml | 7.5 ml |
2. | 210 ml | 218 ml | 8 ml |
3. | 220 ml | 227.5 ml | 7.5 ml |
Calculation
Mean volume of the solid body = = 7.67 ml
Density = =
≈ 2.6 g/ml
Result
The density of the given solid = 2.6 g/ml = 2.6 g/cm3
Precautions
- The concave surface reading of liquid should be taken parallel to eye from measuring cylinder.
- The solid should not touch the sides or bottom of the cylinder.
- The solid should be completely immersed in liquid.
- While taking the reading of measuring cylinder, keep your eye in horizontal plane with liquid level.
Comments
Shivam yadav
It was very helpful for me in this pandamic situation।