Which scientific tool is most appropriate for measuring density in a 6th grade experiment?

Which scientific tool is most appropriate for measuring density in a 6th grade experiment?

• A. Graduated cylinder
• B. Thermometer
• C. Meter stick
• D. Magnifying glass

Answer: (C)

In a sixth-grade experiment focused on measuring density, the most appropriate tool would be a graduated cylinder. Density is defined as mass divided by volume, so to measure density accurately, you need to determine both the mass of the object and its volume. A graduated cylinder allows for the precise measurement of liquid volume, which is essential for calculating density. When an object is submerged in a liquid, the volume of the liquid displaced can be measured in the graduated cylinder, providing the necessary volume for the density calculation. While a thermometer measures temperature, a meter stick measures length, and a magnifying glass aids in viewing small details, none of these tools directly facilitate measuring both mass and volume needed to compute density. Thus, a graduated cylinder stands out as the most suitable instrument for this specific purpose in a science experiment related to density.

In a sixth-grade experiment focused on measuring density, the most appropriate tool would be a graduated cylinder. Density is defined as mass divided by volume, so to measure density accurately, you need to determine both the mass of the object and its volume.

A graduated cylinder allows for the precise measurement of liquid volume, which is essential for calculating density. When an object is submerged in a liquid, the volume of the liquid displaced can be measured in the graduated cylinder, providing the necessary volume for the density calculation.

While a thermometer measures temperature, a meter stick measures length, and a magnifying glass aids in viewing small details, none of these tools directly facilitate measuring both mass and volume needed to compute density. Thus, a graduated cylinder stands out as the most suitable instrument for this specific purpose in a science experiment related to density.