Archimedes' Principle Calculator

Calculate buoyant force: Fb = ρ g V.

How to Use This Calculator

1

Enter the fluid density

Use kg/m³; water is ~1000 kg/m³ at room temperature.

2

Enter displaced volume

Use cubic meters of the submerged volume.

3

Click Calculate

The tool returns buoyant force in Newtons.

Formula

Fb = ρ g V

Where: ρ is fluid density, g is gravitational acceleration, V is displaced volume.

Example: ρ = 1000 kg/m³, V = 0.05 m³ → Fb ≈ 490.33 N.

About Archimedes' Principle

An object immersed in a fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of the displaced fluid.

Applications

  • Ship and submarine buoyancy
  • Hydrometer measurements
  • Balloon and blimp lift estimates

Frequently Asked Questions

Does shape matter?

For buoyant force magnitude, only displaced volume matters, not shape.

What about gases?

Archimedes' principle applies to gases as well; use gas density for ρ.

Why does a ship float?

Its average density is less than water due to enclosed air, so buoyant force balances weight.