Density and pressure test with answers for GCSE physics (free PDF download)

Question 1 Density equation (1 mark)

Write the equation that links density, mass and volume. (1 mark)

Question 2 Pressure equation (1 mark)

Write the equation that links pressure, force and area. (1 mark)

Question 3 Density of a block (3 marks)

A metal block measures 0.050 m × 0.040 m × 0.10 m and has a mass of 1.56 kg.

1. Calculate the volume of the block in m³. (1 mark)
2. Calculate the density of the block. (2 marks)

Question 4 Float or sink (3 marks)

An object has a density of 850 kg/m³. Water has a density of 1000 kg/m³.

1. State whether it floats or sinks in water and give a reason. (2 marks)
2. State whether it floats or sinks in a liquid of density 800 kg/m³. (1 mark)

Question 5 Pressure under a foot (3 marks)

A girl exerts a force of 640 N on the ground through two shoes with a total area of 0.016 m².

1. Calculate the pressure on the ground. (2 marks)
2. Explain why wearing snowshoes of larger area stops her sinking in snow. (1 mark)

Question 6 Pressure in a tank (4 marks)

Use the figure. Water has a density of 1000 kg/m³ and g = 9.8 N/kg.

1. Calculate the pressure due to the water at the base of the tank. (2 marks)
2. State the pressure due to the water at a depth of 6.0 m. (1 mark)
3. Explain why the base of a dam wall is thicker than the top. (1 mark)

Question 7 Volume by displacement (3 marks)

Describe how you would find the density of a small irregular stone using a balance and a measuring cylinder with water. (3 marks)

Question 8 Drawing pin (2 marks)

Explain why a drawing pin is easy to push into a wall by pressing on the head. (2 marks)