Chemistry

Chemistry

Problem

A straight line relating mass and volume for a certain liquid passes through the points (2.0 cm3, 1.6 g)(2.0\,\text{cm}^3,\,1.6\,\text{g}) and (10.0 cm3, 8.0 g)(10.0\,\text{cm}^3,\,8.0\,\text{g}). Calculate the density of the liquid in (g/cm3)(\text{g}/\text{cm}^3).
Intuitive explanation

Density is the ratio of mass to volume—a constant property for any pure substance. Since the data points lie on a straight line through the origin, the slope of that line is exactly the density you're looking for. Pick either two points and use the familiar slope formula ΔyΔx\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x} to find how many grams correspond to each cubic centimeter.

Intuitive explanation

Density is the ratio of mass to volume—a constant property for any pure substance. Since the data points lie on a straight line through the origin, the slope of that line is exactly the density you're looking for. Pick either two points and use the familiar slope formula ΔyΔx\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x} to find how many grams correspond to each cubic centimeter.

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