Buoyancy: A 50-cm³ block of wood is floating partially submerged in water, and a 50-cm³ block of iron is totally submerged in water. Which block has the greater buoyant force on it? A) the wood B) the iron C) Both have the same buoyant force. D) The answer cannot be determined without knowing the densities of the blocks.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The buoyant force on an object is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. Since both blocks have the same volume, and the iron block is completely submerged, it displaces more water than the partially submerged wood block. Therefore, the iron block experiences a greater buoyant force.

Buoyancy: a 50-Cm3 Block of Wood Is Floating Partially Submerged

Buoyancy: a 50-Cm³ Block of Wood Is Floating Partially Submerged