Question

The apparent weight of a steel sphere immersed in various liquids is measured using a spring scale. The greatest reading is obtained for that liquid:

a) in which the sphere was submerged deepest in the liquid.
b) subject to the greatest atmospheric pressure.
c) having the smallest density.
d) having the largest density.
e) having the greatest volume.

Answer 1

The greatest spring scale reading for an immersed steel sphere corresponds to the liquid with the largest density, as this results in a greater buoyant force according to Archimedes' principle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The greatest reading on a spring scale for the apparent weight of a steel sphere immersed in various liquids occurs for the liquid with the largest density. This is because the buoyant force that acts upward on the sphere is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the sphere, according to Archimedes' principle. A liquid with a larger density will result in the displacement of a greater mass of liquid for the same volume of the submerged sphere, which in turn means a greater buoyant force and a higher apparent weight on the spring scale. Therefore, the correct answer is (d) having the largest density.