Why does and apple float but a paperclip doesnt and the apple weighs more?

Answer 1

This is a great question. Apples and paperclips differ from one another in so many ways other than just size and shape. The key factor that contributes toward why apples float, and why paperclips don't, is density. Let's do a little science review. Matter is anything that takes up space. And mass is how much something weighs. Density is defined as an object's mass per unit volume. Imagine you are about to go bobbing for apples. They all float at the top from the start. When your face presses down on them, they sink. That is until you or the apple moves. Now, imagine that you have successfully pulled an apple out of the water and cut it open. The inside is rough and crisp, but contains liquid. Now, I want you to think about a paperclip. What is it made out of? That's right, it's made of steel or aluminum, or some other kind of metal. Suppose you straighten the paper clip and cut it in half. What do you think is on the inside? You're correct, more metal. But what's this got to do with density? Well, let's compare both objects together. An apple is clearly larger than a paperclip in terms of matter. But an apple is made up of lightweight, organic material. A paperclip is smaller than an apple in terms of matter. But a paperclip is made up of a heavy inorganic material. Okay, now that we've figured out what this has to do with density, how is it related to floating? Because the apple contains lightweight materials, which are spread in a large object, its density is less than water. In other words, the apple is lighter than water. And because the paperclip contains heavy materials, which are condensed into a small object, its density is greater than water. In other words, the paperclip is heavier than water. And presto! You have just figured out why an apple floats in water and why paperclips don't! :D Did you know that you can make a penny float in a cup of water?