Question

How can a relatively denser object be made to float on a less dense fluid?

• A. By altering the shape
• B. By altering the forces acting on the object
• C. By altering the shear forces acting on the object
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A By altering the shape

By changing the shape of an object it can be made to float on a fluid even if it is denser than that fluid. This principle is used in shipbuilding. Ships have a higher volume which is mostly filled by airspace hence its overall density is less than that of water and the ship floats. That is why though ships are made up of iron, yet they float in water.