The density of a material can be found by measuring its mass (g) and volume (mL for liquids, cm3 for solids), then dividing the mass by its volume.  But can the density of a material change?  Below we will address this question by determining of shape, size/amount, or temperature can change the density of a material.

As we have observed, a material that is more dense than the material around it will sink.  Material that is less dense than the material around it will float. This explains why the Earth layers in the way that it does!  The most dense layer (inner core) "sinks", while the least dense layer (crust) "floats"!

Since the mass and volume both do not change when re-shaping the clay, the density does not change.  Even though it may seem as if the clay is more compressed (tightly packed) in the oval than in the hollow square, the spacing between those tiny particles that make up the clay is constant (does not change).  Therefore, the shape of a material/substance does not affect its density.

2.  Does size (or amount) affect density?
Dr. OPHERC holds two different amounts of molasses that came from the same jar.  Does the amount of molasses affect its density?

Again, in order to answer this question, we simply need to measure the mass and volume of the molasses at each amount.

The mass and volume both change when changing the amount of molasses.  However, the density does not change.  This is because the mass and volume increase at the same rate/proportion!  Even though there is more molasses (mass) in test tube A, the molasses also takes up more space (volume).  Therefore, the spacing between those tiny particles that make up the molasses is constant (does not change).  In other words, the size or amount of a material/substance does not affect its density.

3.  Does temperature affect density?
If we heat or chill the same amount of water, then does the density of the water change?  Fairly measuring the mass and volume of the water (in order to address this question) is a bit more challenging, because water evaporates when heated, thus affecting both the mass and the volume of water being measured.

Check out the video below on "lake stratification" in order to learn more about how temperature affects the density of water (and other materials).

Assignment
Complete the assignment on Google Classroom.

Earth's Interior Structure
The Earth is made up of four layers:

• Crust: Solid, outer layer of the Earth (5-40 km)
• Mantle: Molten rock beneath the crust (~2900 km)
• Outer Core: Molten iron layer beneath the mantle (~2250 km)
• Inner Core: Solid iron layer beneath the outer core (~1200 km)

The lithosphere is made up of the crust and the upper most part of the mantle.  Beneath the lithosphere is the melted part of the mantle is called the asthenosphere.  The asthenosphere is not quite liquid or solid.  The asthenosphere is thick and gooey, much like lava.  In fact, lava is the molten rock that erupts from volcanoes, but is called magma when beneath the surface (crust) of the Earth.  Scientists often refer to this thick and gooey texture as plastic, which describes things that are easily shaped or molded.  In case you didn't know, molten = melted (think: molten chocolate cake). 

Why do you think the density (how tightly packed the particles of a substance), pressure, and temperature all increase as you go deeper into the Earth?  On the right is a picture that may help you make an inference before we learn more about the properties of matter in the upcoming weeks.  Who do you think is feeling the most pressure?  Who do you think is feeling the least pressure?  Who do you think is feeling the warmest?  Who is the most squashed?!

The Different Physical Properties of Earth's Layers
The video below further divides the Earth's four layers (crust, mantle, outer core, inner core) according to their physical properties.  If you have ever wondered if it is possible for someone to dig to the center of the Earth, you'll find the answer below, too!

Model of Earth's Interior
Every year, Ms. Shon's students build scale models of Earth's interior.  Keep in mind that In order to do this, students must understand both the interior structure of Earth, and how to convert units.  Are you ready to design and build a scale model of Earth's interior?  (interior = inside) I hope so!