Nature

Why do icebergs float in the ocean?

Short answer

Ice is less dense than liquid water, so buoyancy from seawater keeps part of an iceberg above the surface.

How it works

Most of an iceberg is underwater. The visible fraction depends on seawater density and the shape and density of the ice.

Key point

The practical point is this: The visible fraction depends on seawater density and the shape and density of the ice.

References