Question

you have two blocks of unknown material. block a is larger than block b. you place the blocks on opposite pans of a two - pan balance, and the balance is level. how does the density of block a compare to the density of block b? the density of block a is greater than the density of block b. blocks a and b have the same density. it is not possible to compare the density of the two blocks. the density of block a is less than the density of block b.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall density formula

Density $
ho=\frac{m}{V}$, where $m$ is mass and $V$ is volume.

Step2: Analyze balance situation

Since the two - pan balance is level, the masses of Block A and Block B are equal, i.e., $m_A = m_B$. And we know that $V_A>V_B$ (Block A is larger).

Step3: Compare densities

For Block A, $
ho_A=\frac{m_A}{V_A}$, for Block B, $
ho_B=\frac{m_B}{V_B}$. Since $m_A = m_B$ and $V_A>V_B$, then $\frac{m_A}{V_A}<\frac{m_B}{V_B}$, so $
ho_A<
ho_B$.

Answer:

The density of Block A is less than the density of Block B.