Buoyancy Calculator
Buoyant Force (N)
—
Object Weight (N)
—
Net Force (N)
—
Behavior
—
Understanding Buoyancy and Archimedes' Principle
Archimedes' principle states that the buoyant force on a submerged object equals the weight of the fluid it displaces: F_b = ρ_fluid × V_submerged × g. This upward force acts against gravity, determining whether objects float or sink.
If the buoyant force exceeds the object's weight, the object floats. If equal, it's neutrally buoyant (like a submarine at constant depth). If the weight exceeds buoyancy, the object sinks. Ships float because their hull shape displaces enough water to support their weight.
This principle applies to boats, submarines, hot air balloons (using air as the fluid), and even geological processes like isostasy, where Earth's crust floats on the denser mantle below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Archimedes' principle?
An object submerged in fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of displaced fluid: F_b = ρ × V × g.
Why do steel ships float?
Ships are hollow, so the total density (steel + air inside) is less than water. The hull displaces enough water for the buoyant force to support the ship's weight.
What is neutral buoyancy?
When buoyant force exactly equals weight, an object neither rises nor sinks. Scuba divers adjust buoyancy to hover at a desired depth.
Does buoyancy work in air?
Yes! Hot air balloons float because heated air inside is less dense than surrounding cool air, creating an upward buoyant force.