Question

The given figure shows ice cubes whose relative density is less than $1$. What will happen if the ice cubes are dropped in water? ​

• A. They will sink inside water.
• B. They will float on water.
• C. They may either sink or float.
• D. Can’t say.

Answer 1

The correct option is B They will float on water.

If a substance's relative density is less than one then it is less dense and if greater than $1$ then it is denser than the other substance. If the relative density is exactly $1$ then the densities are equal which means equal volumes of the two substances have the same mass. If the reference material is water then a substance with a relative density (or specific gravity) less than $1$ will float in water. For example, an ice cube, with a relative density of about $0.91$, will float. A substance with a relative density greater than $1$ will sink.