Does Water Density Affect Floating?

Yes. Floating depends on density comparison:

• An object floats if its average density < water density (~1,000 kg/m³ at 25°C).
• It sinks if its density > water density.

Examples: A boat floats because its hull displaces water heavier than the boat's total weight. A rock sinks—its density exceeds water's. Temperature and salinity alter water density: cold water is denser; saltwater denser than freshwater (hence easier floating in the ocean).