Maya finds a small metal bolt and wants to identify what metal or alloy it is made from by determining its density.
She explains her reasoning:
Maya: "The density of the metal will be the exact same, no matter how big or small the bolt is, as long as it is made of the same type of metal."
Her friend, Leo, disagrees:
Leo: "Larger bolts will have a higher density because they are heavier."
Who is correct – Maya or Leo? Explain your answer.
Maya uses a measuring cylinder to find the volume of water displaced by the bolt. She has three measuring cylinders to choose from:
Which measuring cylinder would give the most precise measurement? Explain your answer.
The most precise measuring cylinder may still not give an accurate reading. Suggest one reason why.
The table below shows the measurements Maya makes:
| Mass of bolt in g\text{g}g | Volume of bolt in cm3\text{cm}^3cm3 |
|---|---|
| 62 | 7.8 |
State the equation linking density, mass, and volume.
Calculate the density of the bolt. State your answer to an appropriate number of significant figures and give the unit.
How can Maya use her calculated density value to identify the type of metal?
Maya might still be unsure of the exact type of metal even after matching her calculated density value. Suggest why.