Solving the Mystery of Denser Ball in Water: Buoyancy & Density

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between density and buoyancy, specifically regarding two balls of equal volume but different densities floating in water. According to Archimedes's principle, the denser ball will indeed float but will be submerged deeper than the less dense ball. This occurs because the buoyant force, which equals the weight of the displaced water, must match the weight of the ball. Therefore, the denser ball displaces more water to achieve equilibrium.

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  • Understanding of Archimedes's principle
  • Basic knowledge of buoyancy and density concepts
  • Familiarity with the properties of water
  • Concept of displaced fluid volume
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Fineline00
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I have a rather simple question which I can't seem to find an answer to

If I have two balls, one denser than the other, but of same volume, and let them float on water, would the denser one float deeper in the water?

The water is the same and the density of the two balls are less than the density of the water. I think the denser one would float but more of it would be submerged. Is this correct?

Thanks
 
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Yes. Just consult Archimedes's principle. In order to float, the buoyant force must equal the weight of the ball. And the buoyant force is always given by the weight of the displaced fluid. So the heavier ball must displace more water in order to float.
 

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