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About This Simulation
Join Dr. One at the lake and learn what it takes to make an object float or sink. Find out how the density of a liquid does significantly impact the buoyancy of an object and how much of a floating object is submerged below the surface.
Learning Objectives
- Predict whether an object will float or sink in a liquid, using the concept of buoyant force and equilibrium
- Calculate the submerged fraction of floating objects
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
Related Standards
- EHEA Short Cycle
- FHEQ 4
- US College Year 1
- PS2.A-M1
- Physics 1 Unit 2.3
- Physics 1 Unit 3.2
- Physics 2 Unit 1.3
- Physics 2.2
Learn More About This Simulation
Boats, ships, submarines, or a pleasant swim at the lake are all possible because of the buoyant force. In fact, buoyancy is the upward force we need from a liquid to stay afloat.In this simulation, you will learn that the fluid density and the submerged volume of an object both influence the buoyant force. Do you think you will be able to help Archimedes design a perfect swimsuit for Dr. One and help her enjoy a trip of ultimate relaxation at the lake?
Floating and sinking objects
Join Dr. One in our virtual lab and experiment with the weights of objects and how this influences their position in a liquid. You will have three balls with different weights at your disposal and a tank filled up with a water sample you collected from the lake.
During this experiment, you will investigate how the densities of both the object and the fluid affect buoyancy. You will also understand what exactly causes something to float or sink, and the relation between the buoyant force and the object’s weight for a floating object.
Play with different liquid densities
You will have the possibility to fill up the tank with three different liquids. This experiment will explain how the fluid’s density affects the submerged volume of an object. You won’t just intuitively guess the position of the balls in the tank, but you will also evaluate the submerged volume of the balls using equations. You will look at how the submerged fraction of an object relates to the ratio between the densities of the object and the fluid it is immersed in. But don't worry! Dr. One will be there to explain and guide you through the terms of each equation.
The shape-shifting ball
It is time now to understand if the shape of an object can also influence its ability to float or sink. You can find this out by playing with a magic ball, which is able to change shape with the click of a button. Will you be able to solve this mystery? You will need this last piece of information to be able to help Dr. One float on her vacation!
Help Archimedes
At the end of this simulation, you will use your knowledge on the buoyant force to help Archimedes design a perfect swimsuit for Dr. One, and allow her to enjoy a trip of ultimate relaxation at the lake. Of course, you will be able to test your piece of art and see if it works!
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For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.