Chemistry/Measuring Volume

Science 8 Laboratory Investigation

MEASURING VOLUME

Purpose
 * To learn how to measure the volume of various objects by direct and indirect measurements, using a graduated cylinder.

Data Table

Questions 1.	The volume of the aluminum block can be calculated from the following mathematical formula.


 * VOLUME = LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT
 * Use your values for step 7 (a) in your Data Table to calculate volume of the aluminum block. Show your work.

2.	You can also calculate the volume of the aluminum block by the following VOLUME DISPLACEMENT method. Subtract the initial volume of water (7–b in your Data Table) from the volume of water shown after the aluminum block is placed in the graduated cylinder (7-d in your Data Table). The result is the volume of the aluminum.

3.	The volume you calculated in question 1 should be equal to the volume you found in question 2. Do your two volumes seem to be close to each other? Explain your answer.

4.	If you are given a small, irregularly-shaped, jagged piece of rock, which method will probably give you a more accurate value for the volume: the method used in question 1 or the method used in question 2? Explain your answer.

5.	Which of the measurements you made in this laboratory investigation are DIRECT MEASUREMENTS and which are INDIRECT MEASUREMENTS?