What concept is illustrated by students dropping objects into a water table to observe which float or sink?

The concept illustrated by students dropping objects into a water table to observe which float or sink is density. Density refers to the mass of an object relative to its volume. When students engage in this activity, they are effectively exploring how the properties of each object—its mass and volume—determine whether it will float or sink in water.

If an object is denser than water, it will sink; if it is less dense, it will float. This hands-on experiment allows students to develop an understanding of these physical properties in a tangible way. By observing and recording their findings, they learn about buoyancy in relation to density, reinforcing core scientific principles about how different materials interact with water. Thus, this activity effectively introduces important concepts of physical science in a way that is engaging and accessible to young learners.