describing surface tension\nexplain why the coin is able to float on top of the water in this glass.

Brief Explanations:

Water molecules at the surface have stronger cohesive forces than those in the bulk. This creates a 'skin - like' surface layer known as surface tension. The coin's weight is supported by this surface tension as long as it doesn't break through the surface layer.

Answer:

The coin floats due to the surface tension of water. The cohesive forces between water molecules at the surface create a thin, elastic - like film that can support the weight of the coin without it sinking, as long as the coin is placed gently and doesn't disrupt the surface layer.