Surface tension — Science definition
An effect of particle interactions at a liquid surface that can influence small surface objects.
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 surface tension
Problem 1
Which statement correctly uses surface tension in Water’s Properties: Density, Floating & Surface Effects?
- Ice floats because freezing removes its mass.
- The heaviest or largest object must always sink.
- surface tension: An effect of particle interactions at a liquid surface that can influence small surface objects.
- One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation
surface tension: An effect of particle interactions at a liquid surface that can influence small surface objects.
An effect of particle interactions at a liquid surface that can influence small surface objects. 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.