The Floating Apple Challenge

This fun and fascinating project is based on the traditional bobbing for apples game. This game has been a staple at Halloween parties. It is also popular at state fairs and other festive events. 

NOTE: In this use, “bob” means to cause something to move up and down quickly, like these apples!

•  Clean bucket or other deep container
•  Tablecloth if working indoors
•  Water
•  3 apples (more if you want to use this project as a game)

1. Remove the stems from the apples.

2. Fill the bucket until it is almost full.

3. Without using your hands, pick up an apple with your teeth.

4. Notice what happens when you try to bite the apple.

Observation

You should have observed that when you attempted to bite the apple, you pushed it down. This made it difficult to bite before it popped back up. Why?

The Science

Density. The apples float because their molecules aren’t as tightly packed as the molecules in the water. 

Just because something is heavy doesn't mean that it can't float! It's all about density and surface area.

Now you can play the traditional Bobbing for Apples game.

*If you want to take this project further to test it, try taking something else from your home to see if it floats. Check with a parent to see if using that item is okay.