Determining density of liquids
The density of a fluid is determined with the help of a sinker providing a known
volume [ V ]. The sinker is weighed in air [ A ] as well as in the test fluid [ B ].
According to the Archimedes' Principle a body immersed in a fluid experiences a
force of buoyancy. [ G ]. This force equals the weight force of the fluid displaced by
the volume of the body.
The volume [ V ] of the immersed body equals the volume of the displaced fluid.
G = buoyancy of sinker
Buoyancy of sinker =
Weight of the sinker in air [ A ] - weight sinker in test liquid [ B ]
From this follows:
A-B
ρ =
V
ρ = density of test liquid
A = weight of sinker in air
B = weight of the sinkers in test liquid
V = volume of sinker*
8.1.1 Influencing magnitudes and error sources
Air pressure
Temperature
Volume deviation of the sinker
Surface tension of the liquid
Air bubbles
Immersion depth of the sample dish of sinker
Porosity of the solid
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