Question

quick for a medal.
the volume of a wooden block was calculated by measuring the length x width x height. (cm3). the mass was also measured using a scale. all these was used to find the density of the block.
the block used was later said to be hollow. what error would this introduce into the density calculation

Answer 1

If the wooden block is hollow, does that change the dimensions of the block, or the mass of the block?

Answer 2

To me, the question is not clear. Is the objective to calculate the density of the wood, or the density of the wood/sir block?

Answer 3

sorry, "wood/air block"

Answer 4

we are to calculate the density of the wood
we measured the volume of the block by taken the measurement of the width times the height times the length.
then we were told that the block was hollow ....therefore what error could that hollow in the block introduce in the density calculation

Answer 5

In any case, density is a property of a material, not a shape, so I'll assume the objective is to calculate the density of the wood. In that case, finding out the block is hollow would have a major impact on the volume of the wood. The dimensions of the wood would be significantly different and a different calculation would need to be performed to determine its volume.

Answer 6

The mass would remain unchanged, of course.

Answer 7

so what is the error

Answer 8

As explained above, there would be a huge error in the volume.

Answer 9

right. thanks

Answer 10

The volume calculation given in the problem assumed that the block was solid wood. If the block is hollow, there is much less volume of wood.

Answer 11

You're welcome.