1.3. Specific Gravity and Density Test

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the formula to calculate density?

   Hint

   Think about the relationship between mass and space.

2. 2.

   How do you determine the volume of an irregular object?

   Hint

   What happens when an object is submerged in water?

3. 3.

   What is the primary purpose of the specific gravity and density test in timber?

   • To find its cost
   • To measure weight-to-volume ratio
   • To test color

   Hint

   Consider how understanding the 'weight' of wood helps in construction.

4. 4.

   True or False: Water displacement can be used to measure the volume of regular-shaped objects.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the shapes that would not fit into standard volume equations.

5. 5.

   A certain type of softwood has a density of 600 kg/m³. If another hardwood has a density of 900 kg/m³, how much stronger is the hardwood expected to be based on density alone?

   Hint

   Consider the ratio of their densities.

6. 6.

   A builder needs to choose between two wood types for a load-bearing beam. Type A weighs 800 grams with a volume of 600 cm³; Type B weighs 1200 grams with a volume of 900 cm³. Which type should the builder select and why?

   Hint

   Calculate the density of each type and compare their values.