Identification of Metal Samples Through Density Values

Scientists have discovered and are continuing to discover many new facts, properties, elements and chemicals that impact the world that we live in today. Scientists tried many calculations to identify elements. To fully understand this lab, many terms need to be explained. "Physical properties can be observed or measured without changing the composition of matter. Physical properties are used to observe and describe matter." (C. Ohardt, elmhurst.edu) There are three states of matter: solid, liquid and gas. There are three physical stages of matter, these include: freezing point, melting point and boiling point. These stages share changes of the state of matter. (elmhurst.edu)

"Density is a measure of the compactness of the matter within an object, computed by dividing the mass by the volume of the object." (physics.fortlewis.edu) Every element and compound has a unique density, which is like a code that identifies each element or compound. Density can also refer to the "weight" of an object with a constant volume or space that it takes up. Mass is the amount of matter in an object. Mass can be obtained using a triple beam scale or an electronic scale. Volume is the amount of space an object takes up. To obtain the volume of a regular shaped object, use a ruler and use proper formulas. To obtain a volume of an irregular shaped object, use the water displacement method.

The water displacement method is a method where a graduated cylinder is used. It helps to determine a volume of irregular objects. Irregular objects are placed in a graduated cylinder that's filled with water. Metals are elements that are part of the periodic table. Each element has a unique number that can be easily identified. That number is the atomic number. But there is different way, each metal has a unique density that also makes them to e easily identified. Metals are made from different elements. Each metal has different characteristics, for example color, feel, weight texture, etc....