Measuring Bulk Density and Preparing Samples for Other Lab Analyses

(Skip this part if you are not measuring bulk density.)

1. Weigh the rocks that are left on top of the sieve and record this weight on the Bulk Density Data Work Sheet.

2. Place 30 mL of water in a 100 mL graduated cylinder, and without spilling, add the rocks to the water. Read the level of the water after all the rocks have been added and record this value and the original volume of water on the Bulk Density Data Work Sheet.

Without Rocks With Rocks

Note: As you add the rocks, if the volume of the water comes close to 100 mL, record the increase in volume, empty the cylinder and repeat the procedure for the remaining rocks. In this case, you must record the sum of the water volumes with the rocks and the sum of the water volumes without the rocks.