Exploring the Floating Match Trick

  • Thread starter Nerdydude101
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In summary, the match floats because it has a lower density than the liquid it is floating on due to being made of wood. Its shape and size also contribute to its ability to float by not overcoming the surface tension of the water. The material of the match affects its ability to float, with denser materials causing it to sink. The match's density and the surface tension of the water are key factors in determining whether it will sink or float. The temperature of the water can also play a role, as cold water is denser than warm water and extreme temperatures can alter the match's density.
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Nerdydude101
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So i saw a trick the other day where you place a coin under a match, and that match is leaning against another match that is standing upright, if you light the center of the leaning match on fire then it will start to float and you can remove the coin, what i am asking is how this works. Here is an example:
begins at 2:36
 
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1. Why does the match float?

The match floats because it has a lower density than the liquid it is floating on. The density of the match is lower because it is made of wood, which is less dense than water. This difference in density causes the match to float on the surface of the water instead of sinking.

2. Why doesn't the match sink?

The match doesn't sink because of its shape and size. The match is small and thin, so there is not enough weight to overcome the surface tension of the water. The surface tension allows the match to rest on the surface of the water without sinking.

3. Does the material of the match affect its ability to float?

Yes, the material of the match does affect its ability to float. If the match was made of a denser material, such as metal, it would sink instead of float. The match's wood material has a lower density, allowing it to float on the surface of the water.

4. Why do some matches sink while others float?

The density of the match is the main factor in determining whether it will sink or float. If the match is made of a denser material, or if it is damaged or has absorbed water, it may sink instead of float. Additionally, the surface tension of the water can also play a role in whether the match sinks or floats.

5. Is the temperature of the water a factor in the match's ability to float?

Yes, the temperature of the water can affect the match's ability to float. Cold water is denser than warm water, so a match may float in warm water but sink in cold water. Additionally, extreme temperatures can alter the match's density, causing it to sink or float differently than it normally would.

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