If the volume decreases while mass remains constant, what happens to density?

Study Chemistry and Sustainability Concepts for STEM Students Test. Access multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

If the volume decreases while mass remains constant, what happens to density?

Explanation:
Density is defined as mass per unit volume. If you keep the same amount of matter (mass) but shrink the space it occupies (volume), you’re putting that mass into a smaller volume, so the ratio mass/volume gets larger. That means density increases. For example, a 2 kg object with volume 4 m^3 has a density of 0.5 kg/m^3. If you reduce its volume to 2 m^3 while keeping the mass at 2 kg, the density becomes 1 kg/m^3, which is higher. Density cannot become negative because both mass and volume are positive quantities for ordinary materials.

Density is defined as mass per unit volume. If you keep the same amount of matter (mass) but shrink the space it occupies (volume), you’re putting that mass into a smaller volume, so the ratio mass/volume gets larger. That means density increases.

For example, a 2 kg object with volume 4 m^3 has a density of 0.5 kg/m^3. If you reduce its volume to 2 m^3 while keeping the mass at 2 kg, the density becomes 1 kg/m^3, which is higher. Density cannot become negative because both mass and volume are positive quantities for ordinary materials.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy