MCAT Physics Question 56: Answer and Explanation

Home > MCAT Test > MCAT physics practice tests

Test Information

Use your browser's back button to return to your test results.
Do more MCAT physics practice tests.

Question: 56

11. Balls A and B of equal mass are floating in a swimming pool, as shown below. Which will produce a greater buoyant force?

A. Ball A
B. Ball B
C. The forces will be equal.
D. It is impossible to know without knowing the volume of each ball.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

The buoyant force (F_buoy) is equal to the weight of water displaced, which is quantitatively expressed as

F_buoy = m_{fluid displaced}g = ρ_fluidV_{fluid displaced}g

The volume of displaced fluid is equal to the volume of the ball. The density of the fluid remains constant. Therefore, because ball A has a larger volume, it will displace more water and experience a larger buoyant force.

Previous Next