Density Calculator
Calculate density, mass, or volume using ρ = m/V. Includes common material density reference values.
Results
What is it?
Density (ρ) is the amount of mass packed into a unit of volume, expressed as ρ = m/V. It is a fundamental property of matter and governs whether an object floats or sinks (Archimedes' principle). Common densities: water = 1000 kg/m³, iron = 7874 kg/m³, gold = 19,300 kg/m³, air = 1.225 kg/m³, balsa wood ≈ 120 kg/m³.
How to use
Select the quantity you want to solve for (Density, Mass, or Volume) from the dropdown. Then enter the two known values — the calculator fills in all three results simultaneously.
Example scenario
You have a block of aluminium weighing 2.7 kg and occupying 0.001 m³ (1 litre). Select "Density", enter mass = 2.7 kg and volume = 0.001 m³. The density comes out to 2700 kg/m³, consistent with the known density of aluminium.
Pro tip
Archimedes' principle: an object immersed in a fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of the fluid it displaces. If the object's average density is less than the fluid's, it floats. This is why a steel ship (average density < 1000 kg/m³ due to hollow interior) floats on water.