The Weight of 1/2 Cup of Melted Butter: A Science Project Insight

When diving into a science project, it's important to consider the accuracy and reproducibility of the measurements involved. A question that may seem trivial at first can become a focal point in the research, as illustrated by the inquiry regarding the weight of 1/2 cup of melted butter. This piece explores the nuances of volume vs. weight, the accuracy of standard butter measurements, and practical approaches to resolving such discrepancies.

Standard Weight of a Stick of Butter

The U.S. standard for a stick of butter is a well-known measure, with one stick weighing approximately 113 grams. Given this standard, it is reasonable to assume that 1/2 cup of melted butter would also weigh 113 grams. This is because a stick of butter, when melted, retains its mass. Therefore, one stick of butter, when melted, is equivalent to 1/2 cup of melted butter in weight.

Understanding the Measurement of Butter

Cup as a measuring unit is not a perfect standard, as it is a volumetric measurement and can be somewhat approximate. When measuring 1/2 cup of butter, whether in solid or liquid form, the weight remains the same due to the absence of added substances. However, the volume of the butter does change when it’s melted.

Solving the Team Disagreement

In a team setting, scientific disagreements can often be resolved with direct measurement. One practical approach is to weigh the butter in its solid form (un-melted) and then melt it and weigh it again. This method ensures that both teammates and the project as a whole are convinced of the results.

Direct Measurement Methodology

If 1 stick of butter weighs 113 grams, the volume of a cup of butter can be estimated. To determine the weight of 1/2 cup of butter, one can weigh a full stick and then calculate the corresponding weight of 1/2 cup. Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Obtain a stick of butter (113 grams).

Weigh the stick of butter and record its weight as 113 grams.

Melt the butter and measure the volume using a measuring cup (1/2 cup).

Re-measure the volume of the melted butter to ensure it is indeed 1/2 cup.

This direct method helps in confirming the weight of 1/2 cup of melted butter, thereby resolving any team disagreements.

Volume to Weight Conversion

For the more mathematically inclined, the volume of a stick of butter can be calculated to derive its weight. Using the dimensions of the butter stick can help in this calculation. However, it’s important to note that volume changes when the butter is melted:

mass 120 × 113 / V

Here, the volume (V) is in cubic centimeters (cm3), and the mass is in grams (g). Assuming a traditional U.S. cup measurements, 1 cup equals 240 ml, so 1/2 cup is 120 ml. This conversion can help in understanding the weight reduction or expansion when the butter melts.

When melting butter, it's important to note that volume changes, but the mass remains the same. However, slight changes in volume due to melting can be accounted for by precise measurement methods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a stick of butter, when melted, weighs the same as it does in solid form, making the weight of 1/2 cup of melted butter approximately 113 grams. By using this method and direct measurement, any scientific project can achieve reliable and accurate results, ensuring that all participants are in agreement.