📚 Topic Summary
Whether an object floats or sinks depends on its density compared to the density of the fluid (usually water) it's placed in. Density is the amount of mass in a given volume ($Density = \frac{Mass}{Volume}$). If an object is less dense than water, it will float. If it's denser, it will sink. Buoyancy is the upward force exerted by a fluid that opposes the weight of an immersed object.
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term to its correct definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Density |
A. The upward force exerted by a fluid. |
| 2. Buoyancy |
B. The amount of mass per unit volume. |
| 3. Float |
C. To rest on the surface of a liquid. |
| 4. Sink |
D. To fall below the surface of a liquid. |
| 5. Displacement |
E. The volume of fluid pushed aside by an object. |
🌊 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
An object will _____ if it is less dense than water. This is because the _____ force is greater than the force of gravity pulling the object down. The amount of water an object pushes aside is called _____. If an object is _____ than water, it will sink to the bottom.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you have a ball of clay. It sinks in water. What could you do to the clay to make it float? Explain your answer using what you know about density and buoyancy.