Relative Density: Relative density refers to the ratio of an object's mass to its volume. It is expressed as a ratio of two quantities, usually in the same...
Relative Density:
Relative density refers to the ratio of an object's mass to its volume. It is expressed as a ratio of two quantities, usually in the same units. The relative density of an object is compared to that of a reference substance, usually water. The reference density is typically taken as 1, meaning that an object with a relative density of 1 will float in water.
Explanation:
Imagine a can of soda floating in a glass of water. The soda has a higher relative density than water, meaning it has a greater mass per unit volume. This is because the soda has a greater density. The buoyant force exerted by the water on the soda must be greater than the buoyant force exerted by the water on the glass of water, resulting in the soda floating.
Examples:
A solid metal, such as iron, has a higher relative density than water. This means that an object made of iron will sink in water.
A hollow metal sphere, such as a ball, will have a lower relative density than water. This means that it will float in water.
A stone will have a higher relative density than air. This means that it will sink when dropped into water