Pressure depends on contact area under same weight Steps:

• Both tiles are identical, so they have the same mass and exert the same downward gravitational force (weight) on the earth.
• The vertical tile stands on its narrow edge, creating a small contact area with the earth.
• The horizontal tile lies flat, creating a large contact area with the earth.
• Pressure is force divided by area; same force over smaller area means higher pressure for the vertical tile, causing it to sink first.

Why B is correct:

• Forces are the same (equal weights), but pressures differ because contact areas vary, per the formula pressure = force / area.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Forces are not different; both tiles weigh the same.
• C: Pressures are not the same; smaller area increases pressure on vertical tile.
• D: Pressures are not the same; different areas lead to different pressures.

Final answer: B