11.6. Metacenter and Stability Calculation

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define buoyancy.

   Hint

   Think about how objects float in water.

2. 2.

   What is the center of buoyancy?

   Hint

   Where does the buoyant force act?

3. 3.

   What is the buoyant force equal to?

   • Weight of fluid displaced
   • Weight of the object
   • Density of fluid

   Hint

   Think about what is causing the object to float.

4. 4.

   If an object's metacenter is below its center of gravity, is it stable?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the balance of forces.

5. 5.

   Calculate the metacentric height of a ship given its submerged volume of 20 m³ and the moment of inertia about the center of buoyancy as 15 m⁴.

   Hint

   Make sure to use the correct units in calculations.

6. 6.

   Draw a diagram for a floating object in stable equilibrium and explain the forces at play.

   Hint

   Indicate both centers and the line of action for buoyancy.