Question

Describe an experiment to determine the density of the material of a coin.

Answer 1

The density of the material of a coin is determined by the following experiment:

1. We know density is mass per unit volume. So, first mass of the coin is measured by a common beam balance. Let it be M gram.
2. Volume of the coin is measured by a measuring cylinder as shown in the figure given below.
3. Take a measuring cylinder and fill it partly with water.
4. Note the level of water. Let it be V₁ mL.
5. Tie the coin with a thread and gently lower the coin inside the measuring cylinder. Take care that no water splashes out.
6. Note the level of water again. Let it be V₂ mL.
7. Find the volume of the coin (V) by subtracting V₁ from V₂.
   V = V₂ - V₁
   Density of coin is calculated by the formula: Density = `"Mass"/"Volume"`

D = `"M"/"V"  "g cm"^(-3)`