Question

how does the density of saltwater compare to freshwater?
○ saltwater is more dense than freshwater
○ freshwater has a higher salinity than saltwater
○ saltwater and freshwater have the same density

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Saltwater contains dissolved salts (like sodium chloride), which increase its mass per unit volume, making it more dense than freshwater (which has little to no dissolved salts in typical cases).
• Option 2: Salinity refers to the amount of dissolved salts. Freshwater has much lower salinity than saltwater (e.g., ocean water), so this is incorrect.
• Option 3: The presence of salts in saltwater adds mass, so its density is higher than freshwater, making this option incorrect.

Answer:

A. Saltwater is more dense than freshwater