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Foundations of Physics

Density

The mass per unit volume of a substance under specified temperature and pressure conditions.

Governing formula ρ = m / V
SI unit kg/m³

In depth

Density is an intensive property - it depends on material composition and thermodynamic state rather than object size. It dictates whether an object will float or sink in a fluid according to Archimedes' principle.

Examples in the real world

Pure water has a density of approximately 1000 kg/m³ at 4°C, whereas iron is 7870 kg/m³ and gold is 19,300 kg/m³.