A flask containing 11.7 mL of a liquid weighs 132.8 g with the liquid in the flask and 124.1 g when empty. Calculate the density of the liquid in g/mL to the correct number of significant digits.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Calculate the mass of the liquid by subtracting the mass of the empty flask from the mass of the flask with the liquid: \( m_{\text{liquid}} = 132.8\, \text{g} - 124.1\, \text{g} \).
2. Determine the volume of the liquid, which is given as 11.7 mL.
3. Use the formula for density: \( \text{Density} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}} \).
4. Substitute the mass of the liquid and the volume into the density formula: \( \text{Density} = \frac{m_{\text{liquid}}}{11.7\, \text{mL}} \).
5. Ensure the final answer is reported with the correct number of significant figures based on the given data.

Key Concepts

Density

Density is defined as the mass of a substance divided by its volume, typically expressed in grams per milliliter (g/mL) for liquids. It is a crucial property that helps identify substances and understand their behavior in different conditions. The formula for density is D = m/V, where D is density, m is mass, and V is volume.

Significant Figures

Significant figures are the digits in a number that contribute to its precision. This includes all non-zero digits, any zeros between them, and trailing zeros in the decimal portion. When performing calculations, it is essential to report the final answer with the correct number of significant figures based on the precision of the measurements involved.

Mass Measurement

Mass measurement involves determining the amount of matter in an object, typically using a balance. In this context, the mass of the liquid is found by subtracting the mass of the empty flask from the mass of the flask with the liquid. Accurate mass measurement is vital for calculating density and ensuring that the results reflect the true properties of the substance.