A helium-filled balloon released in the atmosphere will rise until
A)the pressure inside the balloon equals atmospheric pressure.
B)atmospheric pressure on the bottom and top of the balloon are equal.
C)the balloon and surrounding air have equal densities.
D)all of the above
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A helium-filled balloon rises because helium is less dense than the surrounding air. It will continue to rise until the density of the helium inside the balloon equals the density of the surrounding air, at which point it achieves neutral buoyancy. Choices A and B do not directly determine the altitude at which the balloon stops rising.

A Helium-Filled Balloon Released in the Atmosphere Will Rise Until