In this experiment, we are measuring the apparent weight of a steel sphere when it is immersed in different liquids using a spring balance. The apparent weight of an object is the reading shown by a weighing scale when the object is submerged in a fluid.

The correct answer is option 1, which states that the greatest reading on the spring balance is obtained for the liquid with the smallest density. Density is the measure of mass per unit volume, so a liquid with a smaller density means that it is less dense.

When the steel sphere is immersed in a less dense liquid, it experiences a greater buoyant force. The buoyant force is the upward force exerted on an object submerged in a fluid, and it is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. In this case, the less dense liquid displaces less weight of fluid, resulting in a smaller buoyant force.

Since the buoyant force reduces the apparent weight of the steel sphere, a smaller buoyant force in a less dense liquid means that the apparent weight will be greater. Therefore, option 1 is correct.

Alert - correct answer should be option 2: The greatest reading on the spring balance is obtained for the liquid with the largest density. When the steel sphere is immersed in a liquid