Upthrust vs Weight: Object Immersion in Fluids

In summary, an object immersed in fluid will either sink, float, or remain in place depending on its weight relative to the buoyancy force of the fluid. If the weight is greater than the buoyancy force, it will sink. If the weight is less, it will float. And if the weight is equal, it will experience neutral buoyancy and remain in place.
  • #1
MBBphys
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Homework Statement


Object immersed in fluid.
If weight larger than upthrust, it sinks. If less, it floats. If weight equal to upthrust, it floats, right?
Thanks!

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


N/A
 
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  • #2
That would constitute neutral buoyancy. In reality it could never quite happen (unless the object is a notional parcel of the fluid itself). It would not properly be described as either floating or sinking. It would just stay wherever it is put, as long as it is fully immersed. It could be touching the surface, touching the floor, or anywhere in between.
 
  • #3
MBBphys said:

Homework Statement


Object immersed in fluid.
If weight larger than upthrust, it sinks. If less, it floats. If weight equal to upthrust, it floats, right?
Thanks!

Homework Equations


N/A

The Attempt at a Solution


N/A
If by 'upthrust' you mean buoyancy, the terms 'positive buoyancy', 'negative buoyancy', and 'neutral buoyancy' have specific meanings in this context.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neutral_buoyancy
 

1. What is upthrust?

Upthrust, also known as buoyant force, is the force that pushes an object upward when it is immersed in a fluid. It is caused by the pressure difference between the top and bottom of the object.

2. What is weight?

Weight is the force exerted on an object by gravity. It is the product of an object's mass and the acceleration due to gravity.

3. How does upthrust compare to weight?

Upthrust and weight are equal in magnitude when an object is fully immersed in a fluid and at rest. If upthrust is greater than weight, the object will float. If weight is greater than upthrust, the object will sink.

4. What factors affect upthrust and weight?

Upthrust is affected by the density of the fluid, the volume of the object, and the depth at which the object is immersed. Weight is affected by the mass of the object and the strength of the gravitational field.

5. How is upthrust vs weight important in understanding object immersion in fluids?

Understanding the relationship between upthrust and weight is important in determining whether an object will float or sink in a fluid. It is also essential in designing ships, submarines, and other objects that need to float or sink in water. Additionally, understanding upthrust and weight can help explain other phenomena, such as why some objects feel lighter when submerged in water.

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