The density of tungsten metal is 19.35 g/cm³.
a. What is the density of tungsten in pounds per cubic foot?
b. A rectangular block of tungsten has a length of 4.00 cm, a width of 2.00 cm, and a height of 1.50 cm. Using the correct number of significant figures, what is the mass of the block in kg?

Key Concepts

Density Conversion

Density is defined as mass per unit volume, typically expressed in g/cm³ or kg/m³. To convert density from g/cm³ to pounds per cubic foot, one must use conversion factors: 1 g/cm³ equals approximately 62.43 lb/ft³. Understanding how to apply these conversion factors is essential for solving part (a) of the question.

Volume Calculation

The volume of a rectangular block can be calculated using the formula: Volume = length × width × height. In this case, the dimensions are given in centimeters, so the volume will be in cm³. This calculation is crucial for determining the mass of the tungsten block in part (b) of the question.

Significant Figures

Significant figures are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision. When performing calculations, the result should reflect the least number of significant figures from the measurements used. In part (b), it is important to apply the correct number of significant figures to the final mass calculation to ensure accuracy and adherence to scientific standards.