What is volume?
Volume is the space occupied by an object. It is measured in cubic centimeters (cm³) or milliliters (mL).
1 cm³ = 1 mL
But how can we measure the volume of an object that doesn't have a regular shape, like a stone?
Materials needed
- A graduated container (such as a measuring cylinder or beaker with a mL scale)
- Water
- A solid object that sinks (e.g. a stone or a metal bolt)
- Paper and pen to take notes
Procedure
- Fill the container with some water and read the initial volume (example: 100 mL).
Let's call this value V₁. - Gently place the solid into the water, being careful not to splash.
- Read the new water level in the container (example: 125 mL).
Let's call this value V₂. - Calculate the volume of the object:
Volume = V₂ - V₁
Example: 125 mL - 100 mL = 25 mL → The volume of the object is 25 cm³
Important notes
- The object must sink completely in order to get an accurate measurement.
- Read the water level at eye level.
- Wait for the water to stop moving before taking the measurement.
Why does it work?
When you immerse an object in water, it displaces an amount of water equal to its volume.
This method is based on Archimedes’ Principle.
Questions to think about
- What happens if the object floats?
- Are mass and volume the same thing?
- Can two objects with the same mass have different volumes?
