An Experiment to Demonstrate Density and Water‐Holding Capacity of Organic Matter

An experiment is described that allows students to estimate particle and bulk density and water‐holding capacity of organic matter. Using compressed disks that are readily available from nurseries, the particle density of organic matter can be approximated; and, after water absorption, the bulk density and water‐holding capacity can be calculated. How students conducting this experiment can increase their understanding of the physical properties of organic matter is discussed in the paper.