Print this page The Law of Buoyancy
Ruben A. Gomez, P.E.
Course Outline
From the simple discovery achieved by Archimedes, it enabled him to conceive the idea of the principle of buoyancy which in turn enabled his contemporaneous boat builders to perfect their designs and make them more efficient and cost effective.
Some historic data is presented as part of this course, as well as a practical example where the Archimedes’ Principle was used to calculate the buoyancy force and also determine the resulting flotation safety factor.
As part of the course material, it has been included a multiple-choice quiz designed not only to confirm understanding of the contents herein presented, but also to enhance the reader’s ideas on reach and applicability.
This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the conclusion of this course the reader will have accomplished the following objectives:
- Have had the opportunity to review one of the many interesting passages of Greek history;
- Have brought back to the memories of the Archimedes’ Principle;
- Have seen said principle presented in a logical and analytical form; and
- Have had the opportunity to examine and follow the steps of a practical application.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for Professional Engineers.
Benefit for Attendee
There is a potential for the attendee to enrich his/her ideas and broaden his/her horizons.
Course Introduction
There was a generalized belief amongst our ancestors that in order to build a boat able to float, it had to be made by using materials suitable for flotation. However, it only took a small incidental and accidental event to show how mistaken that belief was, and that in fact, any material was suitable for as long as the Law of Buoyancy was kept unabridged.
Course Content
The course content is contained in the following PDF file:
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Course Summary
After Archimedes’ realization, it became evident to some that the principle of flotation was not limited only to materials floating on water. They became aware of the fact that any material would float, provided there was enough volume of water displaced to counteract their own weight. Since flotation was determined by volume and density, therefore, the steel vessels dreamed of by the supporters and perpetrators of the “art of war” machines became a reachable reality.
Related Links and References
Additional written information on this matter can be found and reproduced (with permission) from the ASCE Manual of Hydraulic Studies.
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
