Why Do Lemons Float but Limes Sink in Water?

💡 The Answer

• Lemons and limes differ in density — lemons are slightly less dense than water, while limes are marginally denser, causing them to sink.
• Lemons have a thick, spongy pith packed with tiny air pockets that lower their overall density and keep them buoyant.
• Limes have a thinner, tighter rind with far fewer air pockets, so their denser flesh tips the scale just enough to pull them under.
• This kitchen-friendly experiment is a classic demonstration of Archimedes' principle: objects float only when they displace water equal to their own weight.