Why is density considered a characteristic property of a substance?

• A. Because it varies with the size of the sample.
• B. Because it changes when the shape of the object changes.
• C. Because it is affected by the object's mass and volume independently.
• D. Because it depends only on the type of substance, not the amount present.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a characteristic property is a physical or chemical property that helps identify a substance and does not depend on the amount of the substance present.
2. Recall that density is defined as the ratio of mass to volume, given by the formula \(\text{density} = \frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}\).
3. Recognize that while both mass and volume change when the size of a sample changes, their ratio (density) remains constant for a pure substance under given conditions.
4. Note that density depends on the type of substance because different substances have different arrangements and masses of particles, which affect how much mass occupies a given volume.
5. Conclude that density is a characteristic property because it is intrinsic to the substance itself and does not vary with the sample size, shape, or independent changes in mass or volume.