Question

Given the following list of densities, which materials would float in a molten vat of lead provided that they do not themselves melt? Densities (g/mL): lead = 11.4, glass = 2.6, gold = 19.3, charcoal = 0.57, platinum = 21.4.
a. gold and platinum
b. glass and charcoal
c. gold, platinum, glass and coal
d. gold and charcoal
e. None of these

Answer 1

Answer:

b. glass and charcoal

Explanation:

Step 1: Given data

• Density of Pb: 11.4 g/mL

• Density of Glass: 2.6 g/mL

• Density of Au: 19.3 g/mL

• Density of charcoal: 0.57 g/mL

• Density of platinum: 21.4 g/mL

Step 2: Determine which material will float in molten lead

Density is an intrinsic property of matter. Less dense materials float in more dense materials. The materials whose density is lower than that of lead and will therefore float on it are glass and charcoal.