Density compares mass and volume
Density = mass ÷ volume. For a sealed hull, average density includes the empty space. Changing shape helps when it changes the volume of liquid the object can displace.
A LITTLE DISPLACEMENT GOES A LONG WAY
Heavy can float.
Try a block, reshape a steel hull, or load a tiny cargo boat. The liquid gets a vote, too.
MASS · VOLUME · DISPLACEMENTEDUCATIONAL MODEL
Scroll the graph sideways to explore the full curve ↔
The drawing shows equilibrium or the final resting position, not a falling-object simulation. Graph: submersion versus added cargo.
FOLLOW YOUR CURIOSITY
Try a little experiment.
Choose an experiment, predict the result, then explore.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE PLAY
Upward force is displaced liquid
Archimedes’ principle: buoyancy equals the weight of displaced liquid. A floating object settles until buoyancy balances its weight. A fully submerged object has reached its maximum available displacement.
A boat has a limit
Cargo increases weight without increasing external hull volume. This model reports a theoretical fully submerged load limit; a real boat needs freeboard, stability and reserve buoyancy.
A model, with boundaries.
Static equilibrium in a deep liquid, using a constant-section rectangular object for the drawing. Object and cargo are rigid, watertight and uniformly distributed; no flooding, tipping, waves, drag or surface tension. At exact neutral density, the object can remain submerged at any depth. Cargo limit is not a safe vessel rating.