Question

The density experiment involves taking average mass and displaced volume measurements for multiple samples of metal. A student ascertained that the identity of their unknown metal was zinc (d 7.14 g/mL). However, upon consulting their teaching assistant, they learned that the true identity of the metal was copper (d = 8.96 g/mL). What error could the student have made when performing the experiment that would have led to the student's original conclusion? 7.

Answer 1

As is evident by the question, the density calculated by the student is less than the actual density.

We know that,

Density = mass/volume

So, the student must have either measured the mass less than the actual mass or volume more than the actual volume or the student might have made both the mistakes.

That's why the calculated density is less than the actual value.

Comment if any problem.