Floating a Needle

By Richard Latta

It may surprise you to know that a steel sewing needle can float on water. To try this unusual trick you will need a needle, paperclip, and water glass nearly full of water.

First, bend the paperclip as illustrated and balance the needle across the top side of the bottom part so that it won’t fall off. Gently lower the paperclip holding the needle until the needle floats on the water. Lower the paperclip a little deeper into the water and then carefully remove it without disturbing the needle.

Note: Be sure to hold the needle level while lowering it into the water. If one end of it goes into the water first, the surface tension that keeps the needle floating is broken and the needle will sink.