1. What is the Equation of Buoyant Force?

Definition: This equation calculates the upward force exerted by a fluid on an immersed object, known as buoyant force.

Purpose: It helps engineers and physicists determine whether objects will float or sink and calculate the forces involved in fluid mechanics.

2. How Does the Equation Work?

The equation is:

Where:

• \( F_b \) — Buoyant force (Newtons, N)
• \( \rho \) — Fluid density (kg/m³)
• \( V \) — Volume of displaced fluid (m³)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (m/s², typically 9.81)

Explanation: The buoyant force equals the weight of the fluid displaced by the object (Archimedes' Principle).

3. Importance of Buoyant Force Calculation

Details: Understanding buoyancy is crucial for ship design, submarine operations, hot air balloons, and many engineering applications involving fluids.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the fluid density (e.g., 1000 kg/m³ for water), volume of displaced fluid, and gravity (default 9.81 m/s²). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between buoyant force and weight?
A: Buoyant force acts upward (from the fluid), while weight acts downward (from gravity). An object floats when buoyant force equals its weight.

Q2: What's a typical fluid density for water?
A: Fresh water is about 1000 kg/m³, seawater about 1025 kg/m³, and air about 1.225 kg/m³ at sea level.

Q3: How do I find the volume of displaced fluid?
A: For fully submerged objects, it's the object's volume. For floating objects, it's the volume below the fluid surface.

Q4: Why does gravity affect buoyant force?
A: Buoyant force equals the weight of displaced fluid, and weight depends on gravity (weight = mass × gravity).

Q5: Can this be used for gases as well as liquids?
A: Yes, the principle applies to all fluids, though gas densities are much lower than liquids.