Question

Why is a coin able to float on top of water in a glass

Answer 1

Water is often represented as having a density of 1.0 g/mL. Anything put in water that is denser than it will sink (greater than 1). Anything put in water that is less dense than it will float.

Answer 2

1. Surface tension is the result of water molecules pulling inward with a strong attractive force.

2. The attractive force brings the molecules on the surface of the water close together.

3. The attractive force causes the surface of the water to be drawn toward the water molecules beneath the surface.

4. Since there are no water molecules above the surface, there are uneven forces. This causes surface tension, allowing the coin to float on the water’s surface.