float
Definition
Float means to remain on the surface of a liquid without sinking. This happens because the object's density is less than the density of the liquid. The density of an object is its mass divided by its volume. The density of a liquid is its mass divided by its volume.
For an object to float, its density must be less than the density of the liquid. This means that the object must be less massive than the same volume of liquid. For example, a balloon floats on water because the density of the balloon is less than the density of water.
The shape of an object can also affect whether or not it will float. Objects that are more streamlined will float more easily than objects that are less streamlined. This is because streamlined objects have less surface area, which means that they displace less liquid.
The buoyant force is the force that pushes an object upward in a liquid. The buoyant force is equal to the weight of the liquid that the object displaces. For example, a balloon floats on water because the buoyant force of the water pushing up on the balloon is greater than the weight of the balloon.
How can the word be used?
The ice floes floated downstream.
Different forms of the word
Noun: float.
Verb: float, floated, floating.
Adjective: floating.
Etymology
The word "float" is derived from the Old English word flota, which means "to drift". The Old English word flota is thought to be cognate with the Old Norse word fljóta, the German word flöten, and the Latin word fluere.
Question
What materials float?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of buoyancy and the factors that determine whether an object will float or sink in a fluid. Describe how the density of an object and the density of the fluid it is placed in influence its ability to float. Provide real-life examples of how the principle of floatation is utilised in everyday applications.
Answer:
Buoyancy is the force that allows an object to float in a fluid, such as water or air. Whether an object will float or sink depends on its density compared to the density of the fluid. If the object's density is lower than that of the fluid, it will float. Conversely, if the object's density is higher, it will sink.
For example, a piece of wood floats on water because its density is lower than that of water. In contrast, a heavy metal object sinks because its density is higher.
The principle of floatation is utilised in various everyday applications, including boats and ships, which are designed to displace enough water to ensure they are less dense than the water they float on. Life jackets and inflatable toys are also designed to be less dense than water, enabling them to float and provide buoyancy to keep individuals safe in the water.
In conclusion, understanding buoyancy and the density of objects and fluids is essential for comprehending why some objects float and others sink in fluids, and how this principle is applied in everyday objects and safety devices.