PRE – LABORATORY
Experiment Number: 2
Name of Experiment: Density Measurements
REPORT
Date of Experiment: February 20, 2024
Course Code: CHE10 Chemistry for engineers
Degree & Section: BS Civil Engineering 1C
Group Number: 7 Introduction (Important Concepts) (30%)
Group Members: Cabuyaon, Chloe Shazny G. Objective (5%)
De Vera, Jerilou D. Equipment, Materials and Reagents (5%)
Pascua, Vhikansel Andrei V.
Ragusante, Camille C. Process Flow Diagram (50%)
Soriano, Romel Paolo M. (Leader)
Report Quality and Format (10%)
Total (30 points)
I. Introduction
Measurements are fundamental to scientific inquiry, allowing us to quantify the world around us. However, no measurement
is perfect. This experiment delves into the intricate world of density measurements, highlighting the importance of understanding
uncertainties and errors.
We start by exploring the concept of significant figures, emphasizing how the last digit in a measurement reflects an
estimate and contributes to our understanding of uncertainty. We then delve into different types of errors, differentiating between
systematic and random errors. Systematic errors, arising from equipment flaws, method limitations or due to carelessness of the
observer, can be identified and corrected. Random errors, caused by uncontrollable variations or due to inability of the observer
to distinguish between slightly different measurements and colors, can only be minimized by repeated measurements.
Accuracy, representing the closeness of a measurement to the true value, and precision, reflecting the agreement between
repeated measurements, are crucial concepts in data analysis. We'll explore how to express these values as percentages and
delve into their significance in density determinations.
Finally, the experiment's focus on density is introduced. Density, defined as mass per unit volume, is a fundamental property
of matter. We'll explore how this experiment will measure the density of different substances, emphasizing the importance of
accurately determining both mass and volume.
Throughout this experiment, we'll gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of measurements, allowing us to interpret and
analyze data with greater confidence and accuracy.
II. Objectives
The main objective of this experiment is to familiarize students with various measurement techniques that are essential in a
Chemistry laboratory. By conducting hands-on experiments, participants will learn how to collect quantitative data and interpret
errors derived from quantitative results and observations. Additionally, this experiment aims to deepen students' understanding of
density determination methods, which is a crucial concept in the characterization of substances and the exploration of their
physical properties. Through this laboratory exercise, students will acquire practical skills in data analysis, measurement, and
drawing meaningful conclusions. These skills are fundamental aspects of experimental chemistry.
III. Equipment, Materials and Reagents
Equipment Materials Reagents
Weighing balance Blocks of Wood (3)
Calculator Mossy Zinc (3 pcs.)
Ruler
50-mL Beakers (4)
50-mL Graduated Cylinder
10-mL Pipet
Aspirator
Table 1 summarizes the equipment, materials and reagent chemicals needed for the experiment.
IV. Process Flow Diagram
DENSITY MEASUREMENTS
Regular Solids Irregular Solids Water
Obtain three different regular Obtain four clean & dry 50-
Get two pieces of mossy zinc
solids of different shapes mL beaker
Obtain the masses Obtain the masses Obtain the masses
Obtain their Fill a 50-mL Graduated Using a 10-mL pipet,
dimensions (cm) Cylinder partly with water transfer 10mL distilled
and place the sample water into each pre-
weighed dry beakers
Find their Repeat the procedure Weigh the 4 beakers with
volumes using three pieces of water individually and
mossy zinc record the masses
Determine their density