Chapter 1.4, Problem 23SSC

To determine

To Explain:The meaning of non-zero y-intercept in a graph of total mass versus volume.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The relation between the density, mass and volume is:

Density $\text{=}\frac{\text{mass}}{\text{Volume}}$

When a graph of mass versus volume is plotted, its slope gives the information about the density. Its non-zero y-intercept gives information about the mass for zero volume which is not realistic. This is because, at zero volume, the mass should be zero. Therefore, the y-intercept must be zero.