Question

which characteristic of water will allow a paperclip to remain floating on water when the paperclip is gently placed on top of the water? surface tension, adhesion, solvent properties

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Surface tension: It is the cohesive force between water molecules at the surface, creating a "skin - like" layer. A paperclip, though denser than water, can float on this surface layer due to surface tension as the upward force from surface tension can balance the weight of the paperclip.
• Adhesion: This is the attraction between water molecules and other substances. It is not related to the paperclip floating on the water surface.
• Solvent properties: This refers to water's ability to dissolve substances. It has nothing to do with the paperclip floating.

So, the characteristic of water that allows a paperclip to float is surface tension.

Answer:

1. surface tension