Name Date Period

Float
OR Sink?
Research Problem: Why do some objects float in water and some objects sink in water?

Hypothesis: Why do you think that some objects float and some objects sink when placed in water? Write 2 or 3 complete sentences to explain.

Procedure:
1. Write the name of each object in the first column of the data chart.
2. Predict whether or not each object will float.
3. Use a balance to measure the mass of each object and record this in your data table.
4. Fill a graduated cylinder about ½ way full of water. Record the EXACT volume of water in your data table (One number after the decimal point!).
5. Place the object into the graduated cylinder. Record the volume that the water level rises to and record the EXACT volume in your data table. If the
object is floating, use a toothpick to gently push the object under the surface of the water while your lab partner records the volume.
6. To find the volume of the object, subtract the volume of the water and object together MINUS the volume of the water only.
7. Record whether or not each item floated. Record any other observations in the last column.

Data:
A) Prediction: C) Volume of D) Volume of water E) Volume of object Observation: Did Calculation
Object B) Mass (grams)
Float or Sink? water only (mL) + object (mL) only (D minus C) it float or sink? (leave blank)

Questions:

1. Were you surprised by any of your results for the experiment? Why or why not?
 2. How can 2 objects that are different sizes have the same mass?

3. Write a list of the objects in order from LOWEST mass to GREATEST 4. Write a list of the objects in order from LOWEST volume to
mass. Circle the objects that floated. GREATEST volume. Circle the objects that floated.
Greatest mass 1) Greatest vol. 1)
2) 2)
3) 3)
4) 4)
5) 5)
6) 6)
7) 7)
Least mass 8) Least vol. 8)

Calculations: Using the formula calculate the of each object. is defined as…
. Record calculation in data table.

Conclusion: Now you can really answer the question! Why do you think that some objects float and some objects sink? Explain it using what you learned from
the activity today, using complete sentences.