Why Does Density Matter for Buoyant Force?

AI Thread Summary
The buoyant force is determined by the fluid's density because it arises from the pressure difference exerted by the fluid on the object. In a state of equilibrium, the buoyant force equals the weight of the object, but the object's density does not influence the buoyant force itself. Replacing an object with another of the same shape and size but different density will not change the buoyant force. The key factor is the density of the fluid, which dictates the pressure differential. Understanding this principle clarifies why fluid density is crucial in buoyancy calculations.
Cromptu
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Why is the fluid's density taken in the buoyant force?
If the system is in equilibrium, then isn't the buoyant force compensating for the weight of the object? In such a case, shouldn't the density of the object be considered?

Please help!
 
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Cromptu said:
Why is the fluid's density taken in the buoyant force?
If the system is in equilibrium, then isn't the buoyant force compensating for the weight of the object? In such a case, shouldn't the density of the object be considered?
The buoyant force is due to the net effect of the fluid pressure on the object. That depends on the density of the fluid. The density of the object is irrelevant: Replace the object with another of same shape and size but different density and the buoyant force will be the same. Of course, if the object is in equilibrium, then you know that the buoyant force must equal its weight.
 
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