Which property allows objects to float on the surface of water?

Which property allows objects to float on the surface of water?

• A. High surface tension
• B. High viscosity
• C. Low density
• D. High boiling point

Answer: (A)

Floating on a water surface is governed by surface tension, the cohesive forces at the air–water boundary that form a tiny, elastic skin on the surface. When surface tension is high, this skin can support more weight, letting lightweight objects or small creatures rest on the surface rather than breaking through. That’s why high surface tension best explains why things can stay on the surface. Viscosity affects how thick or sticky a fluid is, not whether something stays atop the surface. Low density helps an object float overall due to buoyancy, but it doesn’t specifically describe staying on the surface. A high boiling point has no direct effect on whether something floats.

Floating on a water surface is governed by surface tension, the cohesive forces at the air–water boundary that form a tiny, elastic skin on the surface. When surface tension is high, this skin can support more weight, letting lightweight objects or small creatures rest on the surface rather than breaking through. That’s why high surface tension best explains why things can stay on the surface. Viscosity affects how thick or sticky a fluid is, not whether something stays atop the surface. Low density helps an object float overall due to buoyancy, but it doesn’t specifically describe staying on the surface. A high boiling point has no direct effect on whether something floats.