What is the fraction of an iceberg's volume exposed in seawater?

In summary, The fraction of an iceburg that is exposed is independent of its mass or volume and can be calculated by comparing the volume of seawater displaced to the volume of the iceberg. This can be done by considering the forces acting on the iceberg, using Archimedes' principle and the buoyant force.
  • #1
kitty9035
17
0

Homework Statement


The density of ice is 920 kg/m3, and that of seawater is 1030 kg/m3. What fraction of the total volume of an iceburg is exposed?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know your supposed to do volume of the ice divided by the volume of the seawater, x 100. But, I'm having trouble finding the volumes. V=m/density... but how do u find the mass? Or is there a different way of doing it.
 
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  • #2
Compare the volume of seawater displaced to the volume of the iceberg. The fraction of the iceberg above the water level is independent of its mass or volume. (Just call the mass "m"--you'll find that it will cancel out.)

To proceed, consider the forces acting on the iceberg. And consider Archimedes' principle and buoyant force.
 
  • #3
By a FBD (the iceberg is in equilibrium), so you know that the gravitational force must equal the buoyant force.
 

1. What causes an iceberg to float in seawater?

An iceberg floats in seawater because it is less dense than the seawater. Icebergs are formed from fresh water, which has a lower density compared to saltwater. This difference in density causes the iceberg to float.

2. How much of an iceberg is submerged in seawater?

Only about 10% of an iceberg's volume is above the waterline, while the remaining 90% is submerged. This is due to the difference in densities between fresh water ice and saltwater.

3. Can an iceberg sink a ship?

It is unlikely for an iceberg to sink a ship, as most of its mass is underwater and it would need to be a significantly large iceberg to cause damage to a ship. However, collisions with icebergs can cause damage to ships and have led to sinking in the past.

4. How does the shape of an iceberg change over time?

As an iceberg floats in seawater, it is constantly melting due to the warmer temperature of the water. This causes the iceberg's shape to change over time, with the top becoming more rounded and the sides becoming steeper.

5. How does the melting of icebergs affect sea level?

The melting of icebergs does not directly affect sea level, as they are already floating in seawater. However, the melting of land-based ice sheets and glaciers contributes to sea level rise. As icebergs break off from these larger ice masses, it can accelerate the melting of the land-based ice and contribute to sea level rise indirectly.

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