Making a Floating Lantern: What Should You Consider?

[wisdom32]

im trying to make a lantern float but what kind of formulas should i consider in trying to make it float? i want it to be like this. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/94/SkyLanternRichy01.jpg

 

[mgb_phys]

It simply has to weigh less than the volume of air it is displacing.
The weight and volume of the envelope are simple to measure.
The weight of the hot air inside will depend on the temperature, at room temp 24litres of air weighs around 29g it decreases linearly with absolute temperature ( ie deg C + 273)

You will have to experiment to work out how hot the air is on average - or find a site on make model hot air balloons

 

[ravenprp]

When making a floating lantern, there are a few important factors to consider. First, you will need to determine the weight of the lantern and the volume of air inside it. This will help you calculate the buoyant force needed to keep it afloat. You can use the formula Fb = ρVg, where Fb is the buoyant force, ρ is the density of air, V is the volume of the lantern, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

Additionally, you will need to consider the materials you are using to construct the lantern. It should be lightweight and waterproof to prevent it from sinking. You may also want to include a small weight at the bottom of the lantern to help stabilize it in the water.

Another important consideration is the shape of the lantern. A round or oval shape is ideal as it allows for better distribution of air inside, making it easier to float. You may also want to make sure that the top of the lantern is open to allow hot air to escape and keep it from overheating.

Finally, make sure to test your lantern in a safe and controlled environment before launching it into the sky. This will help you make any necessary adjustments and ensure that it floats properly. With careful consideration and testing, you can create a beautiful floating lantern like the one in the image you provided.