1. What is Buoyant Force?

The buoyant force is the upward force exerted by a fluid on any immersed object. According to Archimedes' principle, the buoyant force is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the buoyant force equation:

Where:

• \( F_b \) — Buoyant force (N)
• \( \rho_f \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)
• \( V \) — Volume of displaced fluid (m³)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s² on Earth)

Explanation: The equation shows that buoyant force depends on the density of the fluid, the volume of fluid displaced, and the acceleration due to gravity.

3. Importance of Buoyant Force Calculation

Details: Calculating buoyant force is essential for designing ships, submarines, hot air balloons, and understanding why objects float or sink. It's fundamental in fluid mechanics and naval architecture.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fluid density in kg/m³ (1000 for water), displaced volume in m³, and gravity in m/s² (9.81 on Earth). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the relationship between buoyant force and weight?
A: An object floats when buoyant force equals its weight, and sinks when buoyant force is less than its weight.

Q2: Does shape affect buoyant force?
A: No, buoyant force only depends on the volume of displaced fluid and fluid density, not the object's shape.

Q3: How does saltwater differ from freshwater?
A: Saltwater has higher density (~1025 kg/m³ vs 1000 kg/m³), resulting in greater buoyant force for the same displaced volume.

Q4: What's the buoyant force in air?
A: For most objects, it's negligible (air density ~1.225 kg/m³), but important for balloons and blimps.

Q5: How is this related to Archimedes' principle?
A: This equation is the mathematical expression of Archimedes' principle, which states the buoyant force equals the weight of displaced fluid.