how to measure the volume of wood chips? (will they float on water re: water displacement, so this would not be a good method to do it)
Use sand displacement.
To measure the volume of wood chips, you can't rely on water displacement because wood chips may or may not float, depending on their density. Instead, you can use the principle of irregular object measurement. Here's a step-by-step method to measure the volume of wood chips:
1. Select a container: Choose a container that is large enough to hold all the wood chips you want to measure. It should have straight sides and a flat bottom for accurate measurements.
2. Weigh the container: Place the empty container on a scale and record its weight. This weight will be needed later to calculate the volume.
3. Fill the container: Carefully pour the wood chips into the container until it is completely full. Level the top of the chips to ensure accuracy.
4. Weigh the container with wood chips: Place the filled container back on the scale and record its weight.
5. Calculate the difference in weight: Subtract the weight of the empty container (step 2) from the weight of the container with wood chips (step 4). This will give you the weight of the wood chips alone.
6. Determine the density: Divide the weight of the wood chips alone by the volume of the container. This will give you the density of the wood chips.
Keep in mind that this method measures the total volume of wood chips, including the spaces in between them. If you need to measure the exact volume of individual wood chips, you may consider using a different method like a graduated cylinder or a 3D scanner.