packing density

In geology, packing density refers to how grains and intergranular spaces are distributed within a sedimentary rock. This distribution is influenced by grain size and shape, as well as the degree of compaction. Packing density, in turn, determines the rock's overall bulk density.1

Density itself varies significantly among different rock types due to differences in mineralogy and porosity. Geologists use density measurements to help interpret subsurface geologic structures and rock types. Density is defined as mass per unit volume, though it is often measured using weight due to experimental error considerations.2