Yes, they most certainly do. And here's
how...
Each bowling ball is universally designed to be the same size
and shape. The difference lies in the weight, as you will know if
you've ever picked up more than one bowling ball. Typical
weights for bowling balls range from 2.7 to 7.3kg. Choosing
the right one to bowl with is an important decision and is unique
to each individual (see our blog on getting started with Tenpin
Bowling).
The difference in weight affects the density of each ball and
this is where the answer to our question lies. As each ball
weighs a different amount despite being the same size, the density
of the balls is affected. The heavier the bowling ball, the
denser it is. This means that more material is packed into a 7.3kg
ball than in a 2.7kg ball.
So what happens when you put the balls in
water?
Say you have a tank of water and you placed three different
balls into the tank. The first weighs 2.7kg with a density of
around 500kg/m3, the second weighs 5.4kg with a density of around
999kg/m3 and the third weighs 7.3kg with a density of around
1340kg/m3.
Only those balls with a density equal to or less than water will
float. Water generally has a density of around 1000kg/m3. So the
first and second bowling balls should bob around happily.
Magic!
The third however, as it's heavier and has a higher density,
will fall to the bottom displacing the water around it.
Clever stuff huh? If you want to find out more, just take a look at this short youtube
video
