Final answer:
An object that sinks in a fluid is more dense than the fluid, as it is unable to displace enough fluid to support its weight due to its higher density.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an object sinks in a fluid, then the object is more dense than the fluid. According to the principles of buoyancy, an object will float if its average density is less than the density of the fluid in which it is submerged. Otherwise, the object will sink. This is because the buoyant force exerted by the fluid can only support the weight of an object if the weight is equal to or less than the weight of the fluid displaced by the object's volume. For example, metals, which are denser than water, will sink in water whereas objects like oil, being less dense, will float.