Floating is the ability of an object to remain on the surface of a liquid without sinking. This occurs when the upward buoyant force exerted by the liquid is equal to the weight of the object. Factors such as the object's density and shape, as well as the density of the liquid, play a crucial role in determining whether something will float or sink. For example, a beach ball floats on water because it is less dense than the surrounding liquid. In contrast, a rock sinks because it is denser than water. Understanding the principles of buoyancy helps explain why some objects float while others do not.