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Chapter 4: Problem 24

It is easier for a person to float in the ocean than in an ordinary swimming pool. Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: It is easier for a person to float in the ocean than in a swimming pool because the higher density of saltwater increases the buoyant force, making it easier for them to stay afloat. Ocean water has a higher salt content which results in a higher density compared to swimming pool water. The stronger buoyant force in the ocean counteracts a person's weight, allowing them to stay afloat with less effort than in a swimming pool.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the principle involved

Buoyancy, which is based on Archimedes' principle, states that a submerged object experiences an upward force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. This force is called the buoyant force.
02

Understand density and the buoyant force

The buoyant force on a person depends on the density of the fluid in which they are submerged (ρ) and the volume of the submerged portion of their body (V). The buoyant force can be determined using the following formula: Buoyant force = ρ × V × g where g is the acceleration due to gravity.
03

Compare salinity levels

Ocean water has a higher salt content than regular swimming pool water. Due to dissolved salts, ocean water has a higher density compared to fresh water or the water in swimming pool.
04

Analyze how density affects buoyancy

Since buoyant force is directly proportional to the density of the fluid, higher density results in a stronger buoyant force. In the ocean, where the water is more dense, a person submerged will experience a greater buoyant force than in a swimming pool with less dense water.
05

Observe the result of the greater buoyant force in ocean water

The greater buoyant force in the ocean water counteracts a person's weight, making it easier for them to stay afloat on the surface of the water without having to exert additional effort. In a swimming pool, the lower density of the water results in a reduced buoyant force, making it more difficult for a person to maintain balance and stay afloat. In conclusion, it is easier to float in the ocean than in an ordinary swimming pool because the higher density of saltwater increases the buoyant force, which makes it easier for a person to stay afloat.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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