Return to MCAT® Blog Homepage

MCAT Physics Question — Lowest Density

Which of the materials in table 1 has the lowest density?

 

Material Volume (cm3) Mass (g)
ice 2 1.86
mercury 4 21.6
iron 6 47.4
methanol 10 7.9

 

A. ice

B. mercury

C. iron

D. methanol

Click for Explanation

Density is calculated as mass divided by volume. On inspection, ice and methanol have densities less than 1, and mercury and iron have densities greater than 1. On closer inspection, ice has density ρ=0.93 g/cm3 and methanol has density ρ=0.79 g/cm3.

 

Material Volume (cm3) Mass (g)
ice 2 1.86
mercury 4 21.6
iron 6 47.4
methanol 10 7.9

 

A. ice, incorrect, ρ=0.93 g/cm3.

B. mercury, incorrect, ρ=5.4 g/cm3.

C. iron, incorrect, ρ=7.9 g/cm3.

D. methanol, correct, ρ=0.79 g/cm3.

Want more MCAT practice?

We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!

From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!

Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.

Create your Free Account to access our MCAT Flashcards SIGN UP NOW
MCAT is a registered trademark of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which is not affiliated with Blueprint.