Buoyancy — Science definition
The upward force a fluid exerts on an immersed or partly immersed object.
Where it is taught
- Water’s Properties: Density, Floating & Surface Effects — Matter, Mixtures & Water Properties, Science 6: Matter, Energy & Earth Systems, Grade 6
Questions using buoyancy
Problem 1
Which statement correctly uses buoyancy in Water’s Properties: Density, Floating & Surface Effects?
- The heaviest or largest object must always sink.
- buoyancy: The upward force a fluid exerts on an immersed or partly immersed object.
- Ice floats because freezing removes its mass.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
buoyancy: The upward force a fluid exerts on an immersed or partly immersed object.
The upward force a fluid exerts on an immersed or partly immersed object. Ice density is 0.9 g/mL. The hull displaces 60 g of modeled water, consistent with buoyancy balancing its weight. A hollow hull can float because of its overall geometry and average density; a compact piece of the same material may behave differently. Neither result is a rule for every temperature or liquid.