Metal Density Calculator

| Added in Physics

What is Metal Density and Why Should You Care?

Metal density measures how much mass a metal has within a specific volume, typically expressed in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³). This property is essential for identifying metals, selecting materials for specific applications, and ensuring quality in manufacturing.

Different metals have distinct densities, making this measurement valuable for material identification and verification.

How to Calculate Metal Density

The formula for metal density is straightforward:

[\text{Metal Density} = \frac{\text{Metal Mass}}{\text{Metal Volume}}]

Where:

  • Metal Density is measured in kg/m³
  • Metal Mass is the weight in kilograms
  • Metal Volume is the space occupied in cubic meters

Calculation Example

Suppose you have a metal sample with:

  • Mass: 120 kg
  • Volume: 0.015 m³

Using the formula:

[\text{Metal Density} = \frac{120}{0.015} = 8000 \text{ kg/m}^3]

This density suggests the sample could be steel, which has a density around 7850-8050 kg/m³.

Common Metal Densities

Metal Density (kg/m³)
Aluminum 2,700
Iron 7,870
Copper 8,960
Silver 10,490
Lead 11,340
Gold 19,300
Titanium 4,500

Applications of Metal Density

  • Material Identification: Verify the type of metal based on measured density
  • Quality Control: Ensure metal purity and composition meet specifications
  • Engineering Design: Select appropriate materials based on weight requirements
  • Cost Estimation: Calculate material costs based on volume and density

Frequently Asked Questions

Metal density is a measure of how much mass a metal has within a specific volume, expressed in kg/m³. It helps identify metal types, select materials for applications, and ensure quality control in manufacturing.

High-density metals like steel and tungsten are strong and durable, ideal for construction. Low-density metals like aluminum and titanium are preferred in aerospace for their lightweight properties while maintaining strength.

Yes, but variations are typically minor for solids. Metals expand with increased temperature, slightly reducing density. Pressure compresses them, slightly increasing density. These effects are generally negligible for practical applications.

Common metal densities include aluminum at 2700 kg/m³, steel at 7850 kg/m³, copper at 8960 kg/m³, gold at 19300 kg/m³, and titanium at 4500 kg/m³.