Question

A piece of material whose specific gravity is 'S' is placed in a container as shown in figure and water is poured slowly, then piece will :

• A. topple clockwise if $S < \frac{1}{2}$.
• B. topple anticlockwise if $S < \frac{1}{2}$.
• C. topple clockwise if S > 2.
• D. topple anticlockwise if S > 2.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

topple clockwise if $S < \frac{1}{2}$.

Answer 2

The stability of the L-shaped object depends on the balance of torques due to its weight and the buoyant force. Detailed analysis shows the object topples clockwise when $S < 1/2$ and anticlockwise when $S > 2$. This is because when $S$ is small, the object is light, and the buoyant force can cause clockwise toppling. When $S$ is large, the buoyant force's effect is less significant relative to the weight, but can still cause anticlockwise toppling.