How Do You Calculate the Perimeter and Area of a Pontoon's Cross Section?

[gl0ck]

Homework Statement

This is the problem that I have , but I do not have any idea..
Please help me :) and sorry if it is not in the right category.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[Simon Bridge]

The idea is to maximize floatation for a fixed amount of steel ... so what makes things float?

 

[SteamKing]

Even moreso, use the GIANT hint in the paragraph below the figure.
Given the shape of the pontoon, can you write expressions for the perimeter and the area of the cross section of the pontoon? You want to follow the directions of the hint carefully.