Why does a steel razor blade float on water yet steel is denser than water?

Answer 1

Razor blades and paper float in water because they are both less dense than water. They are able to displace an amount of water equal to their own weight before they are completely submerged, enabling them to float.

Answer 2

In case of a razor blade, the surface area of the blade increases as compared to a steel block of probably the same mass kept in water. Pressure is inversely proportional to area. Hence less pressure acts on the blade in downward direction resulting in floating of it on water surface. Bouyant force exerted on the body increases than weight acting downwards causing the floating.

Answer 3

This is a interesting phenomena, it is caused by the surface tension of the water.

One theory (and I believe it is correct) is that because the forces between the water molecules are only to one side at the surface of the water (i.e. downwards just below the water level).

Because the forces from the other water molecules is only downwards at the surface, the water molecules on the surface experiences double the downwards force (no/less upwards force) leading to this almost hardened surface on the water and any molecules (the razor in this case) cannot (without extra force) penetrate the surface of the liquid.

You can search for surface tension I am sure you will find this better explained.

Answer 4

A razor blade floats on water due to surface tension, which allows it to support the weight of the blade before it breaks through. Steel is denser than water, but the small size and shape of the razor blade allow it to rest on the water's surface.

Answer 5

Yes. The surface tension will hold it up if it is carefully placed in the water.

Answer 6

A clean stainless steel razor blade don't float on water.