The useful idea
- The useful idea
Buoyancy (), or upthrust, is the force exerted by a fluid opposing the weight of a partially or fully immersed object (which may also be a parcel of fluid).
- How it works
In a column of fluid, pressure increases with depth as a result of the weight of the overlying fluid.
- Why it matters
Thus, the pressure at the bottom of a column of fluid is greater than at the top of the column.
Why this matters
Look for Buoyancy the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Buoyancy the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Buoyancy?
- How it works
- The useful idea — correct
- Why it matters
Buoyancy (), or upthrust, is the force exerted by a fluid opposing the weight of a partially or fully immersed object (which may also be a parcel of fluid).