Explain why a dead body floats

In summary, dead bodies float because of the build-up of gases inside the body during the decomposition process. This can happen at any stage of decomposition, but is more common after a few days. While all dead bodies have the potential to float, factors such as body composition, clothing, and water temperature can affect whether or not a body will float. The length of time a body can float varies depending on water temperature and type of body of water, and it is possible for a body to sink after initially floating due to changes in gas build-up or external disturbance.
  • #1
amritha_sish
5
0
1. A ball is thrown vertically upwards with a velocity of 49m/s. Calculate
a) The maximum height to which it rises
b) The total time it takes to return to the surface of the earth.

2. A certain force exerted for 1.2 seconds increases the speed of an object
from 1.8m/s to 4.2m/s. Later the same force is applied for 2 seconds. How
much does the speed change in 2 seconds?

3. A motorboat starting from rest on a lake accelerates in a straight line
at a constant rate of three metres per second square for 8 seconds. How
far does the boat travel during this time?

4. a) Why are double tyres provided at the rear wheels of a truck?

b) A man at the top of a tower throws an object horizontally
whereas he simply drops another. Will these two objects reach
the Earth at the same time? Why?

c) Explain why a dead body floats, with its head immersed in
water?
 
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  • #2
These questions are too difficult for me.
You have to give me some hints, that is: SHOW WHAT YOU HAVE DONE SO FAR!
 
  • #3
arildno is just kidding about it being too difficult. He just wants you to put in an effort to try to solve these problems otherwise he is just giving answers..
 
  • #4
dead body floats

A cadaver in the water starts to sink as soon as the air in its lungs is replaced with water. Once submerged, the body stays underwater until the bacteria in the gut and chest cavity produce enough gas -- methane, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon dioxide -- to float it to the surface like a balloon. (The buildup of methane, hydrogen sulfide, and other gases can take days or weeks, depending on a number of factors.) At first, not all parts of the body inflate the same amount: The torso, which contains the most bacteria, bloats more than the head and limbs. The most buoyant body parts rise first, leaving the head and limbs to drag behind the chest and abdomen. Since arms, legs, and the head can only drape forward from the body, corpses tend to rotate such that the torso floats facedown, with arms and legs hanging beneath it.
 
  • #5
Thanx

Thanx for that explanation iddheepak.:smile:

Pl add on the first two Qns. They r too confusing. :confused:
 
  • #6
amritha_sish said:
Thanx for that explanation iddheepak.:smile:

Pl add on the first two Qns. They r too confusing. :confused:

As arildno has already told you, you must show your work before you will receive any help on these forums.

You should read the forum rules, specifically the homework help forum rules, available from an icon on the toolbar at the very top. That goes for people answering homework questions, as well as asking them.
 

1. Why do dead bodies float?

Dead bodies float due to a process called "postmortem buoyancy." This is caused by the build-up of gases within the body as it decomposes. These gases, such as methane and hydrogen sulfide, are lighter than water and cause the body to become less dense, making it float.

2. At what stage of decomposition does a body start to float?

A body can start to float at any stage of decomposition, as long as enough gases have built up inside to make it less dense than water. However, it is more common for a body to float after a few days of decomposition, when the gases have had time to accumulate.

3. Can all dead bodies float?

In general, yes, all dead bodies have the potential to float. However, factors such as body composition, clothing, and water temperature can affect whether or not a body will float. For example, bodies with more fat tend to float more easily than lean bodies, and clothing can trap air and make a body more buoyant.

4. How long can a dead body float for?

This can vary depending on several factors, such as water temperature and the type of body of water. In colder water, a body may take longer to decompose and therefore float for a longer period of time. In warm, stagnant water, a body may decompose more quickly and sink to the bottom.

5. Is it possible for a body to sink after initially floating?

Yes, it is possible for a body to sink after initially floating. As the body continues to decompose, the build-up of gases may decrease or escape, causing the body to become more dense and sink. Additionally, if the body is disturbed or manipulated in any way, it may disrupt the gases and cause the body to sink.

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