As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had my fair share of encounters with glassware. When it comes to glass shards, it is safe to say that they do not float. Unlike a glass bowl, which may have the ability to float due to its empty and hollow nature, glass shards are typically denser and heavier.
To understand why glass shards sink, it is important to consider the properties of glass. Glass is made from a combination of silica, soda ash, and limestone, which are all dense materials. When glass breaks, it shatters into sharp fragments, known as shards. These shards retain the density of the original glass, making them heavier than water.
In my experience, I have witnessed glass shards sinking to the bottom of a sink or a glass of water when accidentally dropped. The shards quickly descend due to their weight, unaffected by the buoyancy of the water. This is a result of the shards being more dense than the liquid they are submerged in.
Furthermore, the sharp edges of glass shards can also contribute to their sinking. The irregular and jagged edges create more surface area, increasing the weight and density of the shards. This makes it even more difficult for them to float in a liquid.
It is worth noting that the shape and size of glass shards can also affect their buoyancy. Smaller shards, due to their reduced surface area, may have a slightly higher chance of floating than larger ones. However, in most cases, the weight and density of the glass will ultimately cause them to sink.
To summarize, glass shards do not float due to their density and weight. Unlike a glass bowl or other hollow glassware, which may have air trapped inside to provide buoyancy, glass shards lack this ability. Their dense composition and sharp edges make them sink when submerged in a liquid.
I hope this explanation sheds light on the behavior of glass shards. It is always important to handle broken glass with caution to avoid any potential dangers.