Density Calculator

Last updated: June 2026

Mode

Mass

Mass unit

Volume

Volume unit

Density

1,000 kg/m³ (1 g/cm³)

Formula

Density = mass / volume. Mass = density x volume. Volume = mass / density.

Material density table

Material	Density (g/cm³)
Water	1.000
Ice	0.917
Air	0.001225
Aluminium	2.700
Iron	7.874
Copper	8.960
Steel	7.850
Gold	19.320
Silver	10.490
Lead	11.340
Wood (oak)	0.750
Concrete	2.300
Glass	2.500
Petrol	0.740
Seawater	1.025

About this calculator

The Density Calculator works out density, mass, or volume using the standard density relationship. It is useful for science homework, lab checks, material comparison, shipping estimates, and practical questions such as whether a material is heavier than water for the same volume.

Density formula

Density describes how much mass is packed into a given volume. The calculator converts units, calculates in a common base, then converts the answer back to the selected output unit.

density = mass / volume
mass = density x volume
volume = mass / density

How to use the density calculator

Choose whether you need density, mass, or volume.
Enter the two known values.
Select the matching units for mass, volume, and density.
Check whether your volume is in cubic units or liquid units.
Review the result and the step-by-step formula.
Compare your result with the material reference table.

Worked examples

Water density check

Input: Mass 1,000 g, volume 1,000 ml

Calculation: density = 1,000 / 1,000

Result: 1 g/ml, the approximate density of water

Metal sample

Input: Mass 270 g, volume 100 cm3

Calculation: density = 270 / 100

Result: 2.7 g/cm3, close to aluminium

Common density references

Material	Approx. density
Water	1.000 g/cm3
Ice	0.917 g/cm3
Aluminium	2.700 g/cm3
Steel	7.850 g/cm3
Gold	19.320 g/cm3

Common unit mistakes

A common mistake is mixing cm3, m3, ml, and litres without converting them. Another is comparing wet, porous, or mixed materials with pure material density tables.

Density result limitations

Density varies with temperature, pressure, impurities, moisture, and measurement precision. Use lab-grade methods for scientific reporting.

Frequently asked questions

What does density measure?

Density measures mass per unit of volume.

Is g/ml the same as g/cm3?

For water-style liquid volume conversions, 1 ml equals 1 cm3, so the numerical density is equivalent.

Why do some objects float?

An object tends to float when its average density is lower than the fluid around it.

Can I find mass from density?

Yes. Multiply density by volume.

Can density identify a material?

It can give a clue, but many materials have overlapping densities. Other tests may be needed.

Related calculators

Volume Calculator
Grams to Ounces Converter
Litres to Gallons Converter

What does this mean?

This calculator is designed to help you understand the likely number before you make a decision or start an application.

Your result should be checked against official UK guidance, especially if your circumstances include dependants, exemptions, prior leave, or a complex immigration history.

Treat the figure as a planning tool rather than legal advice. Where the answer affects an application deadline or major payment, speak to an authorised adviser.