Weigh the empty aluminum soda can using a scale. Record the mass of the can in grams (g). If the scale is calibrated in ounces (oz), convert the ounces to grams by multiplying by 28.3495. For example, 1.2 oz is equivalent to 1.2 x 28.3495 = 34.0 grams.
Add water to a large, graduated beaker until the water level is about 2 cm higher than the height of the upright soda can. Ensure that the beaker is large enough to accommodate the soda can. If the beaker is too small to hold an undamaged, empty can, crush the soda can. It is important to note that crushing may trap air pockets in the can which can lead to inaccurate volume measurements.
Record the water level in cubic centimeters, being careful to read the bottom of the meniscus. The meniscus is the curved surface of the water. This water level is the initial volume (Vi) measurement. Note that one milliliter (mL), which is a common volume unit used on graduated glassware, is equivalent to one cubic centimeter (cm^3).
Lower the empty soda can into the beaker, being careful not to splash any water. Tilt the can so the water can easily displace the air inside it. The soda can will sink to the bottom of the beaker once all the air in the can has been displaced by the water.
Record the water level in the beaker once the soda can is fully submerged. This is the final volume (Vf) measurement.
Calculate the difference in water levels before and after submerging the soda can to obtain the volume of the empty can. The soda can volume equals the difference in water levels = Vf -- Vi. For example, if the initial volume of the water is 1020.0 cm^3 and the water level rises to 1032.6 cm^3 after submerging the can, the volume of the empty can = (1032.6 cm^3 -- 1020.0 cm^3) = 12.6 cm^3
Divide the mass of the soda can by its volume to yield the density of aluminum. The density of the aluminum = (mass of empty can)/(Vf -- Vi). For example, a can with a mass of 34.0 g and a volume of 12.6 cm^3 has a density of 2.7 g/cm^3 = (34.0 g/12.6 cm^3).