1. What is Center of Buoyancy?

The Center of Buoyancy (CB) is the centroid of the displaced fluid volume by a submerged or floating body. It represents the point where the buoyant force acts vertically upward through the body.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the center of buoyancy formula:

Where:

• \( CB_y \) — Center of buoyancy y-coordinate (m)
• \( A_i \) — Individual area components (m²)
• \( y_i \) — Y-coordinate of each area component (m)
• \( A_{total} \) — Total area (sum of all A_i) (m²)

Explanation: The formula calculates the weighted average of y-coordinates based on area distribution.

3. Importance of Center of Buoyancy Calculation

Details: Accurate center of buoyancy calculation is crucial for determining stability of floating vessels, designing marine structures, and analyzing hydrostatic equilibrium.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter areas in m² and corresponding y-coordinates in m as comma-separated values. Ensure both lists have the same number of values and all areas are positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between center of buoyancy and center of gravity?
A: Center of buoyancy is the centroid of displaced fluid, while center of gravity is the centroid of the body's mass distribution.

Q2: Why is center of buoyancy important for stability?
A: The relative positions of center of buoyancy and center of gravity determine the righting moment and stability of floating objects.

Q3: How does center of buoyancy change with immersion?
A: Center of buoyancy shifts as the submerged volume changes shape with different levels of immersion.

Q4: Can this calculator handle 3D coordinates?
A: This calculator computes the y-coordinate only. For full 3D analysis, separate calculations are needed for x and z coordinates.

Q5: What units should be used?
A: Use consistent units - typically meters for coordinates and square meters for areas in marine applications.