- Scientists make metal tubes that can float on water.
- The treated tubes do not sink in water anywhere.
- The tube inside surface has many tiny pits.
- These pits make the metal repel and avoid water.
- Air stays trapped inside the tube and helps it float.
- The trapped air keeps water from filling the tube.
- Tubes still float even after heavy damage or holes.
- Many tubes can join together to form strong rafts.
Difficult words
- surface — outside part of an object or material
- pit — small empty place on a surfacepits
- repel — push away a liquid or object
- trap — hold something so it cannot leavetrapped
- damage — harm or break part of something
- raft — flat group that floats on waterrafts
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you like to float on a metal raft?
- Have you ever seen a raft on water?
- Do you think air can help things float?
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