Which factors affect an object's ability to float?

In this lesson, we will be discussing upthrust (or buoyancy) in more detail. We will discuss what density is and how it affects floating. We will also discuss the link between weight and upthrust. Finally, we will make some predictions which we will test.

Which factors affect an object's ability to float?

In this lesson, we will be discussing upthrust (or buoyancy) in more detail. We will discuss what density is and how it affects floating. We will also discuss the link between weight and upthrust. Finally, we will make some predictions which we will test.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Describe the forces acting on an object floating in water
  2. Explain why the forces acting on an object may lead to it floating or sinking
  3. Describe features of an object that enable it to float

Licence

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4 Questions

Q1.
Which of these is NOT an example of a non-contact force?
Gravitational force
Magnetic force
Correct answer: Water resistance
Q2.
If a golf ball and a ping pong ball were to fall at the same time, which would hit the ground first?
The golf ball.
The ping pong ball.
There is no way of knowing.
Correct answer: They would hit the ground at the same time.
Q3.
Which of these is NOT a practical use for magnets discussed in our lesson?
Magnets are placed in stomachs of cows to catch metals.
Magnets are used for televisions, microwaves and computers.
Correct answer: Magnets are used to store data in computers.
Magnets keep our refrigerator door shut.
Q4.
What would it feel like if two different sides of a magnet are brought together?
It would feel no different than bringing together two other objects.
Correct answer: They would attract each other.
They would repel each other.

4 Questions

Q1.
Upthrust is also known as...
Air resistance
Correct answer: Buoyancy
Gravity
Q2.
What would have a higher density?
A basketball
A beach ball
Correct answer: A bowling ball
Q3.
If the upthrust is less than the weight of the object, the object will
Float
Rise
Correct answer: Sink
Q4.
If the upthrust is equal to the weight of the object, the object will...
Correct answer: Float
Rise
Sink

Lesson appears in

UnitScience / Forces

Science