How do you find the density of a density bottle?

To find the density of a liquid using a density bottle, you utilize the formula density = mass/volume. This process involves weighing the bottle both empty and when filled with the liquid, and since the density bottle has a known volume, the liquid’s density can be easily calculated.

Detailed Procedure for Calculating Density with a Density Bottle

Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Weighing the Empty Bottle:

   • First, carefully weigh the empty and dry density bottle using an accurate balance. Record this weight as m₁.

2. Filling the Bottle:

   • Completely fill the density bottle with the liquid whose density you wish to determine. Ensure that no air bubbles are trapped inside. Any excess liquid should be removed (often by closing the lid) so that the bottle is filled to its exact volume.
   • Clean the outside of the bottle to ensure it's completely dry, thus avoiding any measurement inaccuracies.

3. Weighing the Filled Bottle:

   • Now, weigh the density bottle filled with the liquid. Record this weight as m₂.

4. Determining the Mass of the Liquid:

• To find the mass of the liquid, subtract the mass of the empty bottle (m₁) from the mass of the filled bottle (m₂): mass of liquid (m) = m₂ - m₁.

5. Density Calculation:
   • The density bottle has a known volume (V). If this is not indicated on the bottle, then it would have been previously determined.
   • Use the formula density = mass/volume (ρ=m/V) to calculate the density of the liquid: ρ = (m₂ - m₁) / V.

Example Calculation

Let's say:

• m₁ (mass of empty bottle) = 20g
• m₂ (mass of bottle filled with liquid) = 70g
• V (volume of density bottle) = 50 mL

Then:

• Mass of liquid = 70 g - 20 g = 50 g
• Density of the liquid = 50 g / 50 mL = 1 g/mL

Importance of Density Bottles

Density bottles are vital in scientific labs because they offer:

• Accuracy: They are designed to hold precise volumes of liquid, ensuring high measurement accuracy.
• Consistency: Their consistent volume makes it easy to reproduce experiments that require very accurate density calculations.
• Simplicity: The method is straightforward and easy to implement with standard lab equipment.

In summary, determining the density of a liquid using a density bottle is a straightforward process that relies on the accurate measurement of the mass of the liquid and its known volume. The formula density = mass/volume then provides the result.