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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?

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15y ago

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Related Questions

Could a paperclip float on regular water?

no


How long can a paperclip float?

A paperclip can float for several minutes in water depending on its size and weight distribution. The buoyancy of the paperclip allows it to stay afloat until it becomes waterlogged and eventually sinks.


Does soap affect the ability of the paperclip to float?

Yes, soap can affect the ability of the paperclip to float because soap lowers the surface tension of water. When the surface tension is reduced, the paperclip may no longer be able to stay afloat and could sink.


Why does a paperclip float in water because of surface tension or weight displacement?

A paperclip can float on water due to surface tension, which is the cohesive force between water molecules that creates a "skin" on the surface. This surface tension allows the paperclip to rest on top of the water without sinking, despite its weight. The weight of the paperclip does displace some water, but it's the surface tension that counteracts the force of gravity, enabling it to float. If the paperclip were to be pushed beneath the surface, it would break the surface tension and sink.


What property of liquids will allow a paperclip to float on water?

Surface tension is the property of liquids that allows a paperclip to float on water. Surface tension is caused by the cohesive forces between water molecules, creating a "skin" on the surface strong enough to support the weight of the paperclip.


Why a clip float in water?

Because the paperclip is not dense enough to break the surface tension of the water


Why do markers float?

markers float because they are less weight. and it doesnt have metle on it.


Does the shape of the paperclip affect its floating ability?

The shape of a paperclip can affect its floating ability if it alters the distribution of weight and buoyancy. A paperclip with a more streamlined shape is likely to float better than one with irregular bends and angles that may disrupt its balance in water.


Can apple float in soda?

yes


Does an apple float or sink in water?

Apples flkoat in watter that is why you can "bob" for apples.


What is the problem statement of a floating paperclip?

The problem statement would typically involve how to make a paperclip float or suspend in a liquid, such as water, without sinking or fully submerging. The challenge may be to find a way to alter the paperclip's buoyancy or surface tension of the liquid to achieve this desired effect.


What is the same about a cork a iceberg and an apple?

can float