MCQ Detailed View

One of the most interesting facts about our solar system is that Saturn is the only planet that could float on water. This concept is based on the scientific property of density. Density is defined as the amount of mass in a given volume. If an object’s density is less than that of water (1 g/cm³), it will float.

Saturn’s average density is only 0.687 g/cm³, which is much lower than water. This low density is because Saturn is a gas giant, made primarily of hydrogen and helium, the lightest elements in the universe. Even though Saturn is the second largest planet in the solar system after Jupiter, its light composition makes it less dense than liquid water. If we could imagine an ocean large enough to hold Saturn, it would theoretically float.

On the other hand, Mars and Venus are rocky planets, just like Earth. Mars has a density of about 3.93 g/cm³, and Venus has an even higher density of 5.24 g/cm³. Both of these values are far above the density of water, so they would sink if placed in the same scenario.

This fact highlights the difference between gas giants (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) and terrestrial planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars). Gas giants are composed mostly of gases and ices, making them less dense, while terrestrial planets are rocky and metallic, which makes them heavier for their size.

Thus, the correct answer is Saturn. This Everyday Science question shows how basic physics, chemistry, and astronomy come together to explain a fascinating property of our solar system. It not only makes learning fun but also improves our understanding of how different planets are structured.