Week 3
Density
This week we will begin to look at density in the context of the composition of Earth. Materials that are less dense float and those that are more dense sink. At one time the earth was molten (liquid). The heavier elements sank to the center of the earth and the less dense elements floated to the top. This is the reason for the layering of the Earth shown above.
Day 1
Density of the Earth's Crust
When Earth formed it was molten which allowed more dense molecules to sink and less dense molecules to float. The result is a general layering of the earth into areas of differing densities.
Watch a brief video on the layers of the Earth.
2. Introduction to the concept of density notes.
Density = Mass / Volume.
3. Density Simulation
Day 2
Review Density
Preview the Density Virtual Lab
Complete the Density Virtual Lab
Day 3
Review Density Virtual Lab.
Density of Liquids Lab (in class). This lab is designed to simulate the formation of Earth's layers during the molten phase of Earth's formation. Students identify the core, mantle, and crust while calculating the density of three liquids from measurements of mass and volume.
Day 4
Complete or make up assignments from this week and complete your study guide to study for the quiz tomorrow.
Density Study Guide
Calculate density given the formula D=m/v
Recognize the units of density, mass, and volume.
Determine whether an object floats or sinks given the density.
Determine how liquids will layer in a container given their density or relative density given their position.
Know how changes in temperature and pressure influence the density of an object.
Determine the the relative density of solid, liquid, and gas of most substances and how they differ from water.
Know the relative density of Earth’s layers.
Day 5
Review and Density Quiz