Question

motor oil would float on top of mineral oil

densities of some
common liquids
liquid | density (g/ml)
water | 1.0
rubbing alcohol | 0.8
corn syrup | 1.4
molasses | 1.4
honey | 1.4
motor oil | 0.9
mineral oil | 0.8
corn oil | 0.9

○ false

○ true

Explanation:

Step1: Recall density and floating principle

A liquid with lower density floats on a liquid with higher density.

Step2: Find densities of motor oil and mineral oil

From the table, density of motor oil is \(0.9\) g/mL, density of mineral oil is \(0.8\) g/mL.

Step3: Compare densities

Since \(0.9>0.8\), motor oil is denser than mineral oil. A denser liquid sinks, so motor oil should sink below mineral oil, not float on top.

Answer:

False