Density Curriculum

Section 3—Lesson 9: How Do Atomic and Molecular Bonds Contribute to Density?

Understanding Goals

Subject Matter

• A second cause of differences in density is the strength and structure of the atomic and molecular bonds of the substance. This is most important when thinking about solids and liquids.

Causality

• Density has multiple contributing causes. Not every cause is involved in every situation where density is in play.
• You can't compare objects or substances by using just one of the causes alone. It may leave out other important relationships that could contribute to the resulting density of the object or substance. You also can't assume that every cause contributes to every situation.