1. What is the Buoyant Force Formula?

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

Purpose: It helps determine whether objects will float or sink and is fundamental in fluid mechanics and engineering.

2. How Does the Formula Work?

The formula is:

Where:

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

Explanation: The buoyant force equals the weight of the fluid displaced by the object.

3. Importance of Buoyant Force Calculation

Details: Essential for ship design, submarine operations, hot air balloons, and understanding why objects float or sink.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the fluid density, 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 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: What's a typical fluid density for water?
A: Fresh water is about 1000 kg/m³, sea water about 1025 kg/m³.

Q3: Does object density affect buoyant force?
A: No, buoyant force depends only on fluid density and displaced volume (Archimedes' Principle).

Q4: How do I find the displaced volume?
A: For fully submerged objects, it's the object's volume. For floating objects, it's the submerged portion's volume.

Q5: Why is gravity included in the formula?
A: The buoyant force equals the weight of displaced fluid, and weight depends on gravity.