Why does saltwater make you float more?

General Forum
1

I noticed I float way better in the ocean than in a pool. Is it because of the salt?

2

Exactly. Saltwater is denser than freshwater, so it provides more upward buoyant force.

3

Dariel said:
Exactly. Saltwater is denser than freshwater, so it provides more upward buoyant force.

It’s the same reason you can float super easily in the Dead Sea—it’s insanely salty.

4

Interesting… so does temperature affect this too?

5

Blai said:
Interesting… so does temperature affect this too?

Yup! Colder water is denser, so it’s slightly easier to float in cold saltwater than warm.