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Floating Body vs. Submerged Body

What's the Difference?

Floating body and submerged body are two different states of objects in a fluid medium. A floating body is an object that remains partially or completely above the surface of the fluid, supported by the buoyant force acting on it. On the other hand, a submerged body is an object that is completely immersed in the fluid, with the buoyant force acting in the opposite direction to the weight of the object. Both floating and submerged bodies experience buoyancy, but the way in which they interact with the fluid and the forces acting on them differ significantly.

Comparison

AttributeFloating BodySubmerged Body
DefinitionObject that floats on the surface of a fluidObject that is completely or partially submerged in a fluid
Archimedes PrincipleWeight of the body is equal to the weight of the fluid displacedWeight of the body is greater than the weight of the fluid displaced
Buoyant ForceUpward force exerted by the fluid on the bodyUpward force exerted by the fluid on the body
Net ForceNet force is zeroNet force is not zero
StabilityStable equilibriumUnstable equilibrium

Further Detail

Floating Body

A floating body is an object that remains on the surface of a liquid without sinking. This is due to the buoyant force acting on the body, which is equal to the weight of the liquid displaced by the body. The buoyant force allows the body to float effortlessly on the surface of the liquid, regardless of its shape or size.

One of the key attributes of a floating body is its ability to displace a volume of liquid equal to its own volume. This principle, known as Archimedes' principle, explains why objects float or sink in a fluid. The density of the floating body plays a crucial role in determining whether it will float or sink in a particular liquid.

Another important attribute of a floating body is its stability on the surface of the liquid. A well-designed floating body will have a low center of gravity, which helps it maintain its balance and prevent tipping over. This stability is essential for objects like boats and ships that need to remain upright while floating.

Additionally, the shape of a floating body can affect its buoyancy and stability. Objects with a larger surface area relative to their volume, such as a boat with a wide hull, will experience greater buoyant force and be more stable on the surface of the liquid. This is why boats are often designed with a wide base to enhance their floating capabilities.

Lastly, the weight of a floating body is an important factor in determining its ability to float. Objects with a lower weight relative to the volume of liquid they displace will float more easily than heavier objects. This is why materials like wood and plastic are commonly used in the construction of floating objects like boats and buoys.

Submerged Body

A submerged body is an object that sinks below the surface of a liquid due to its density being greater than that of the liquid. Unlike a floating body, a submerged body does not experience a buoyant force that keeps it afloat, causing it to sink to the bottom of the liquid.

One of the key attributes of a submerged body is its ability to displace a volume of liquid equal to its own volume, just like a floating body. However, in the case of a submerged body, the weight of the body is greater than the buoyant force acting on it, causing it to sink below the surface of the liquid.

Another important attribute of a submerged body is its stability in the liquid. While a floating body relies on its buoyancy to remain stable on the surface, a submerged body must rely on its weight and shape to maintain its position underwater. Objects like submarines are designed with streamlined shapes to reduce drag and enhance stability while submerged.

Additionally, the depth at which a submerged body is located in the liquid can affect its behavior. Objects submerged at greater depths will experience higher pressures and forces acting on them, which can impact their stability and movement. This is why submarines are equipped with advanced technology to withstand the extreme conditions of deep-sea exploration.

Lastly, the material composition of a submerged body can influence its ability to sink or float in a liquid. Objects made of denser materials like metal will sink more easily in water, while objects made of lighter materials like plastic will float. This is why submarines are often constructed with strong, durable materials to withstand the pressures of underwater environments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, floating bodies and submerged bodies exhibit distinct attributes that determine their behavior in a liquid. While floating bodies rely on buoyancy to remain on the surface, submerged bodies sink due to their greater density. Both types of bodies require careful consideration of factors like weight, shape, and material composition to ensure their stability and functionality in a liquid environment.

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