The mass of a grain of sand typically ranges from 0.011 to 0.02 grams, depending on the type of sand and its composition. Most common sand is made from silicon dioxide (SiO2), and when we take into account the average size of sand grains, they roughly measure between 0.0625 mm and 2 mm in diameter.
To put this into perspective, a single grain of sand is relatively light compared to everyday objects. For instance, a handful of sand can weigh around 400 grams or more, depending on how tightly it is packed and the moisture content. Therefore, while we often think of sand as a bulk material, each individual grain has a surprisingly small mass.
Factors that can influence the mass of a grain of sand include its mineral composition, size, and shape. For example, rounded grains may pack differently compared to angular ones, potentially affecting the overall weight when measured in bulk.