Physics 5054 · O Level · Density

Density — practice question

A student works out an approximate density for the glass used to make a test-tube. In Fig. 1.1, a full-size drawing of the test-tube shows the height $h$ and the external diameter $d$.
(a(i))[1]

Measure the height $h$ of the test-tube shown in Fig. 1.1 to the nearest $0.1\,\text{cm}$.

(a(ii))[1]

Measure the external diameter $d$ of the test-tube shown in Fig. 1.1.

(b)[1]

Explain why it is necessary for the student to make sure that the blocks are parallel to each other.

(c)[1]

Calculate the external volume $V_E$ of the test-tube with $V_E = 0.79\,d^2 h$.

(d)[1]

Enter the reading $V_I$ on the measuring cylinder; this gives the internal volume of the test-tube.

(e)[1]

Calculate the volume $V_G$ of the glass in the test-tube by applying $V_G = V_E - V_I$.

(f)[1]

Suggest one possible source of inaccuracy when measuring the internal volume of the test-tube $V_I$.

(g(i))[1]

Record $m$ correct to the nearest gram.

(g(ii))[2]

Use your results from (g)(i) and (e) to find the density $\rho$ of the glass used to make the test-tube with $\rho = \frac{m}{V_G}$. Include the unit in your answer.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The answer is $h = 15.0\text{ cm}$.

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