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How do you calculate mass from volume in chemistry?

Published in Mass Volume Calculation 2 mins read

To calculate mass from volume in chemistry, you use the formula that relates density, mass, and volume: d = m / v. This can be rearranged to find the mass: *m = d v**, where 'm' is mass, 'd' is density, and 'v' is volume.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

  1. Understand the Formula: The core relationship is density (d) equals mass (m) divided by volume (v), d = m / v. To find the mass, you must rearrange it to *m = d v**.
  2. Identify the Given Values: You need to know the density of the substance and its volume to calculate the mass. Make sure that your density and volume units are compatible for instance, if density is given in g/mL, your volume must be in mL.
  3. Plug in the Values: Substitute the known density and volume values into the formula *m = d v**.
  4. Calculate Mass: Multiply the density by the volume to find the mass.
  5. Include Units: Always include the correct units with your mass value (e.g., grams (g), kilograms (kg))

Example

Let's use the provided reference to calculate the mass of water and oil using their respective volumes and densities.

Substance Volume (mL) Density (g/mL) Calculation (m = d * v) Mass (g)
Water 220 1 m = 1 g/mL * 220 mL 220
Oil 130 0.915 m = 0.915 g/mL * 130 mL 118.95

Steps for the Example:

  • Water: The volume of water is given as 220 mL, and its density is 1 g/mL. Using the formula m = d v, the mass of the water is m = 1 g/mL 220 mL = 220 g.
  • Oil: The volume of oil is given as 130 mL, and its density is 0.915 g/mL. Using the formula m = d v, the mass of the oil is m = 0.915 g/mL 130 mL = 118.95 g.

Key Takeaways

  • This method applies to various substances, provided you know their densities.
  • Density can vary with temperature, so it's important to use density values at the correct temperature.
  • Volume and mass are two key properties in chemistry, related by density.

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