GCSE Physics equations practice
Select a relationship from the equation sheet, rearrange it and calculate with the right units.
GCSE density calculations
Find density from dimensions, water displacement or liquid measurements; convert density units.
Practise
Subtract the container massAn empty cylinder has mass 39 g. With 72 cm³ of liquid its mass is 96.6 g. Calculate the liquid density in g cm⁻³. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.
Treat the given values as exact unless an uncertainty is stated.
Hint
Subtract the cylinder mass before dividing by liquid volume.
Worked solution
- m = 96.6 − 39 = 57.6 g.
- ρ = 57.6 / 72 g cm⁻³.
- Answer: 0.800 g cm⁻³ (3 significant figures).
Question type: Subtract the container mass
Report a problem
Foundation and Higher: this set covers content common to both tiers. Some calculations need several steps.
Mass and volume
Density is mass divided by volume. Use kg with m³ for kg m⁻³, or g with cm³ for g cm⁻³. A liquid’s mass excludes its container. For displacement, subtract the initial reading from the final reading. At constant mass an increase in volume reduces density. These questions use exact supplied readings; experimental uncertainty is discussed in the density practical guide.
Work through the practical method and sample results
GCSE scope
AQA 8463: 4.3.1.1; required practical 5 (selected); OCR Gateway J249: P1.1d–f; PM1.1i; PAG P1 (selected). Tasks cover the selected skills listed above.