Floating and sinking — KCSE Physics

KCSE Physics · 107 practice questions · 6 syllabus objectives

25 easy42 medium40 hard

What You'll Learn

Key learning outcomes for this topic, aligned to the KNEC KCSE syllabus.

State and verify Archimedes' principle experimentally

State the law of flotation and define relative density

Describe applications of Archimedes' principle and solve numerical problems

Determine relative density of solids and liquids using Archimedes' principle and density bottles

Describe the structure, calibration and uses of a hydrometer

Explain floating and sinking in terms of density and upthrust; solve numerical problems

Sample Questions

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1
easySHORT ANSWER4 marks

State the law of flotation and explain its significance for large vessels. (4 marks)

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Part (a) — 2 marks
A floating body displaces its own weight of the fluid in which it floats (2 mks)
Part (b) — 2 marks
It allows large vessels to carry heavy loads while floating (1 mk)
Ensures stability and safety of navigation (1 mk)
2
easySHORT ANSWER3 marks

Define relative density in the context of objects floating in seawater. (3 marks)

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Part (a) — 3 marks
Relative density is the ratio of the density of an object to the density of seawater (1 mk)
It indicates whether the object will float or sink in seawater (1 mk)
If relative density is less than 1, the object will float (1 mk)
3
easySHORT ANSWER2 marks

Name the principle that explains why ships float on water. (2 marks)

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Part (a) — 2 marks
Archimedes' principle (2 mks)
4

State two reasons why a solid with a relative density less than 1 will float in water. (2 marks) (b) Describe how you would use Archimedes' principle to determine the relative density of a liquid. (2 marks)

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Why Practise Floating and sinking?

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