11.6.1. Calculating Metacentric Height

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is buoyancy?

   Hint

   Think about what happens when you drop an object into water.

2. 2.

   Define metacentric height.

   Hint

   Where do the weight and buoyant forces act?

3. 3.

   What does buoyancy allow objects to do?

   • Float
   • Sink
   • Neither

   Hint

   Think about what happens when you push an object underwater.

4. 4.

   True or False: The center of gravity is the same as the center of buoyancy.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the shape of different floating objects.

5. 5.

   A boat has a center of gravity 1.5 meters below the waterline and its center of buoyancy is 2 meters below the waterline. Calculate the metacentric height.

   Hint

   Remember the formula GM = BG when measuring these distances.

6. 6.

   Design a floating structure that can support a heavier weight while remaining stable. Describe modifications.

   Hint

   Consider how changing shape and distribution affects buoyancy.