Chapter 10, Problem 12Q

To determine

Whether sand should be added or removed from the barge when it is filled high with sand and is moving under a low bridge.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Denser objects sink in water and displace more water.

Density of sand is more than that of water. On adding a sand of volume equal to barge, sand replaces air and hence, density increases. This causes more displacement of water and barge sinks further into river. Hence, barge will pass under low bridge.

Conclusion:

Sand should be added to barge to increase its weight (or density) to make it pass under bridge.