Sink or Float?

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Science

Sink or Float?

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For grown-ups

Companion summary

Have you ever dropped a big rock in a puddle and watched it disappear straight to the bottom? Sailors and engineers use this idea to build boats that carry heavy loads safely across the ocean. A huge steel ship floats because its hollow shape traps air, making it lighter than the water it pushes aside. When you finish, try guessing whether a grape or a cork will float before you test them in a bowl of water.

Look at the water!

Look at the water!

Think about bath time. A rubber duck stays on top. A bar of soap drops to the bottom. Why does that happen?

💭 Think about this

What have you seen float or sink in water?