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Density explains why steel ships float and small steel balls sink, why oil stays above water, and why hot air rises.
The Formula
ρ = m ÷ V | Object floats if average density < surrounding fluid density
Standard formula used by professionals worldwide
Worked Example
Step-by-step
Steel ball: 7,800 kg/m³ > water 1,000 kg/m³ → sinks | Ship hull average: < 1,000 kg/m³ → floats
Key Concepts
- Accuracy: Results are as accurate as the inputs you provide
- Units: Always use consistent units throughout your calculation
- Verification: Double-check important calculations before making decisions
- Professional advice: For major financial, health, or structural decisions, consult a qualified professional
Privacy and Security
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- No data is sent to any server
- No sign-up or personal information required
- Your data stays private — always
Frequently Asked Questions
Archimedes' principle?
Displaced fluid weight vs object weight determines flotation.
Hot air balloon physics?
Heated air has lower density than cool surrounding air → net upward buoyancy force.
Specific gravity?
Density ratio to water. SG < 1 floats. Used in mineralogy, brewing, petroleum industries.