What is the density of an iceberg and how much of it will show in fresh water?

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In summary: The pressure of the water on the underside of the iceberg would quickly equalize the atmospheric pressure on top, and you would feel nothing.
  • #1
Vuldoraq
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Homework Statement



a) If the part of an iceberg above sea level is one ninth of the whole, what is the density of ice?

b)How much of the iceberg would show if it moved into a fresh water region?

Homework Equations


Density of sea water=1025kgm^-3
Density of fresh water 1000kgm^-3

Weight displaced=upthrust
Force due to gravity = mg


The Attempt at a Solution



For part a) I equated the upthrust and the force due to gravity, by applying Newtons first law. However I am confused as to whether I should also take into account the atmospheric pressure pressing the part of the iceberg above sea level down. In all the stuff I've read no one seems to take it into account when finding the density of an iceberg. Is there a reason for this?

In part b) I think you again apply Newtons first law and use the ice density calculated in part a),

[tex]\rho_{ice}*g*v_{ice}=\rho_{water}*g*v_{water}[/tex]

[tex]\frac{\rho_{ice}}{\rho_{water}}=\frac{v_{water}}{v_{ice}}[/tex]

Which gives the proportion of ice under the water.

Please could someone help me?
 
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  • #2
Vuldoraq said:
However I am confused as to whether I should also take into account the atmospheric pressure pressing the part of the iceberg above sea level down.


If you pick up a piece of paper, do you feel the 1400 pounds of force that air pressure exerts on it?
 
  • #3
Vanadium 50 said:
If you pick up a piece of paper, do you feel the 1400 pounds of force that air pressure exerts on it?

I do :(
 
  • #4
Vanadium 50 said:
If you pick up a piece of paper, do you feel the 1400 pounds of force that air pressure exerts on it?

I geuss not, but isn't that because as soon as you pick it up air rushes underneath the paper, very quickly, and the air underneath exerts an equal and oppisite force to the air above, thus we don't feel the pressure force. In the sea this situation is clearly impossible.
 
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FAQ: What is the density of an iceberg and how much of it will show in fresh water?

What is the density of an iceberg?

The density of an iceberg can vary depending on its composition, but on average it is about 0.92 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm3). This is slightly less dense than seawater, which has a density of 1.03 g/cm3.

How is the density of an iceberg measured?

The density of an iceberg can be measured by taking its mass and dividing it by its volume. This can be done by weighing the iceberg and then using a formula to calculate its volume based on its dimensions.

Why is the density of an iceberg important?

The density of an iceberg is important because it affects its buoyancy in the water. If an iceberg is less dense than seawater, it will float with a portion of its mass above the surface. This can be dangerous for ships and other vessels in the area.

Can the density of an iceberg change?

Yes, the density of an iceberg can change over time as it melts. As the ice melts, the density decreases because the volume increases while the mass stays the same. This can also cause a change in the iceberg's buoyancy.

How does the density of an iceberg compare to the density of water?

The density of an iceberg is slightly less than the density of water. This is because ice is less dense than liquid water. This is why ice cubes float in a glass of water. However, the density of an iceberg is still close enough to the density of water that it can pose a threat to ships and other vessels in the water.

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