Density, defined as mass per unit volume, is a fundamental property of matter. Two materials with different atomic structures and masses can occupy the same volume, yet possess varying densities. This difference in density explains why one substance can feel subjectively “heavier” than another of equal size.
Understanding the relative densities of materials is critical in various fields, including metallurgy, construction, and even art. For example, knowing the density of a metal is vital for structural calculations in engineering, while differences in density allow for the identification of counterfeit coins or artworks. Historically, density measurements have also been used to assess the purity of precious metals.