This exam tips covers Exam Tips for Density within Density for GCSE Physics. Revise Density in Particle Model for GCSE Physics with 13 exam-style questions and 30 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 12 of 13 in this topic. Treat this as a marking guide for what examiners are looking for, not just a fact list.
Topic position
Section 12 of 13
Practice
13 questions
Recall
30 flashcards
💡 Exam Tips for Density
🎯 Common Question Types:
- Calculate density given mass and volume (2 marks)
- Describe the displacement method for irregular objects (3 marks)
- Explain why an object floats or sinks (2 marks)
- Identify sources of error in the density practical (2 marks)
📝 Key Command Words:
- Calculate: Use ρ = m/V, show working, give units
- Describe: Give step-by-step method for practical
- Explain: Compare densities and state the consequence (float/sink)
- Suggest: Often asks why results might be inaccurate
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Forgetting to state units — always include kg/m³ or g/cm³
- Confusing mass and weight in density questions
- Using V₂ instead of V₂ − V₁ for displacement volume
- Mixing up g/cm³ and kg/m³ without converting (multiply by 1000)
Quick Check: Describe the displacement method for finding the volume of a small stone. What equipment do you need and what do you measure?
Equipment: measuring cylinder, water. Method: part-fill cylinder with water, record initial volume (V₁). Lower stone fully into water, record new volume (V₂). Volume of stone = V₂ − V₁. Then use ρ = m/V with mass measured separately on a balance.
Keep building this topic
Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Density. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.
Practice Questions for Density
What is the correct equation for density?
Explain why gases have a much lower density than solids, using ideas about particles.
Quick Recall Flashcards
13 questions on Density — practise free
Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 30 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.
Try PrepWise Free