Density
Properties of Matter

Foil Float

Enrichment Activity for 5-11 11-14

What you need

  • Bucket
  • Foil
  • Water

Instructions

  1. Fill up a bucket with water.
  2. Scrunch one piece of foil in the air and put it in the bucket.
  3. Scrunch the other one underwater.

Results and Explanation

One piece of foil will sink and the other will float.

The piece of foil scrunched above water traps some of the air, which helps it to float.

These experiments have not been specifically safety tested for home use but we believe them to be safe if the instructions are followed. Adult supervision or direction is recommended as appropriate. All experiments are carried out at your own risk.

Density
appears in the relation m=ρV
Limit Less Campaign

Support our manifesto for change

The IOP wants to support young people to fulfil their potential by doing physics. Please sign the manifesto today so that we can show our politicians there is widespread support for improving equity and inclusion across the education sector.

Sign today