Physics · 10

Density and Relative Density

Density is the mass of a substance per unit volume. Relative density is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of water. These concept

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Why does ice float in water while most solids sink in their respective liquids?

Ice has lower density (917 kg/m³) than liquid water (1000 kg/m³) due to its crystalline structure with more space between molecules. Most solids are denser than their liquids, but water is an exception.

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What does relative density of 0.8 mean?

It means the substance has 80% of water's density. A substance with RD = 0.8 will float in water because it is less dense. The fraction submerged would be 0.8 or 80%.

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Can density be used to identify materials?

Yes, density is a characteristic property of each substance. Different pure substances have different densities, so measuring density can help identify the substance. However, mixtures may have intermediate densities.

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