Archimedes' Principle Calculator

Free Archimedes' Principle Calculator — compute buoyant force on a submerged object and determine if it floats or sinks.

930.5K uses Updated · 2026-05-11 Runs locally · zero upload
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The Archimedes’ Principle Calculator computes the buoyant force on a submerged object using Fb = ρ · V · g, and optionally compares it with the object’s weight to predict whether it floats, sinks or is suspended.

How to Use Archimedes’ Principle Calculator

  1. Enter fluid density ρ — common defaults: 1000 kg/m³ for water, 1025 kg/m³ for sea water.
  2. Enter displaced volume V — the volume of fluid pushed aside.
  3. Enter gravity g — defaults to 9.80665 m/s² (Earth standard).
  4. (Optional) enter the object mass — to compare buoyant force with weight and predict behaviour.

Formula & Theory — Archimedes’ Principle Calculator

Fb = ρ · V · g
W = m · g
Compare Fb vs. W → float / sink / suspend

Use Cases for Archimedes’ Principle Calculator

  • Naval architecture — predict displacement and buoyancy of hulls.
  • Civil engineering — design pontoons, caissons and submerged structures.
  • Physics labs — verify Archimedes’ principle experimentally.
  • Diving — estimate buoyancy compensation for divers and gear.

Frequently asked questions about Archimedes' Principle Calculator

What if the object is only partly submerged?

Replace V with the submerged volume. The calculator assumes the value you enter is the volume actually displaced.

Does shape matter?

No. Archimedes’ principle depends only on the volume of fluid displaced, not on the object’s shape.

Why does suspension happen at Fb = W?

When buoyant force equals weight, the net vertical force is zero — the object stays at any depth (neutrally buoyant).

Is my data stored?

No. All calculations run locally in your browser; nothing is sent to any server.