Multiple Choice
What causes a water strider to be able to walk on water?
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19. Fluid Mechanics
Buoyancy & Buoyant Force
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How do water striding insects manage to walk on the surface of water?
A
They have tiny air sacs that provide additional buoyancy.
B
They have special adaptations that reduce their weight significantly.
C
They secrete a substance that increases the water's density beneath them.
D
They utilize surface tension to stay afloat and move across the water.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of surface tension: Surface tension is a physical property of liquids that makes the surface layer behave like a stretched elastic membrane. It is caused by the cohesive forces between liquid molecules.
Recognize the role of surface tension in supporting small objects: Surface tension can support small objects, like water striders, that do not break the surface layer of the liquid due to their lightweight and the distribution of their weight over a larger area.
Identify the adaptations of water striders: Water striders have long, hydrophobic legs that distribute their weight over a larger area, allowing them to take advantage of surface tension without breaking the water's surface.
Consider the balance of forces: The upward force due to surface tension must balance the downward gravitational force acting on the insect. This balance allows the insect to remain on the surface without sinking.
Conclude with the correct explanation: Water striders utilize surface tension to stay afloat and move across the water, as their adaptations allow them to exploit this physical property effectively.
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