Where does a body weigh lightest?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of buoyancy and weight in different fluids, specifically comparing the effects of hot and cold oil and water on the weight of a body. The original poster presents a scenario involving upthrust and flotation principles.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between fluid density and buoyancy, questioning the validity of the provided answer regarding which fluid allows a body to weigh lightest. There is a focus on the role of density in determining buoyancy and the implications for weight perception.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing with participants expressing differing views on the correctness of the original answer. Some participants are questioning assumptions about fluid density and buoyancy, while others are suggesting that the question may be misleading.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of potential trickery in the question, as well as the need to clarify the definitions of density and buoyancy in relation to the scenario presented.

johsun123
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Homework Statement



Hot oil, Hot water, Cold Oil, Cold water

Homework Equations



Upthrust according to flotation principle

The Attempt at a Solution



It will weight lightest when Upthrust by the fluid is highest, which should be cold water.

Answer given was " cold oil".
 
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I think you're right and the answer is wrong. Oil floats on water because it's less dense.
 
Only some forms of oil are denser than water, and a person's body weight doesn't change because it's floating, it's just that buoyancing is providing some countering upwards force, which would make this a trick question.
 
This was not meant to be a trick question, I am sure.
 
Most types of oil float on water so pretty sure the given answer is wrong.
 

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