PPolySim OS

Buoyancy & Archimedes

Why do some things float and others sink? An object settles with exactly the fraction ρ_object/ρ_fluid submerged — adjust the densities and watch it find its level.

Buoyancy & ArchimedesLive

Controls

An object floats with exactly the fraction ρ_object/ρ_fluid submerged. Denser than the fluid? It sinks. This is Archimedes' principle, live.

Presets

▶ Run in Python

Data Inspector

Fraction submerged60%
Statefloats
ρ ratio0.60

Governing equation

Reading this result: Lighter than the fluid (ρ ratio 0.60), so it floats with exactly 60% submerged — the submerged fraction equals the density ratio, and object size never changes it.

Runs locally in your browser — free forever. Scale to the cloud when reality gets heavy.

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How it works

This models Archimedes' principle: the buoyant force equals the weight of displaced fluid, so an object floats with the density ratio submerged. Make it denser than the fluid and it sinks — the physics behind ships, submarines, and hot-air balloons.

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The math, the assumptions, real-world uses, or a code translation — explained for this exact simulation.

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Frequently asked questions

Is this buoyancy simulation tool really free?
Yes. Buoyancy & Archimedes runs entirely in your browser using your device's own compute, so local use is free forever. You only pay Compute Tokens if you scale a job to the cloud.
Do I need to install anything?
No. Everything runs client-side in a modern browser — no downloads, no license, no account required to start.
Can I save or share my simulation?
Create a free account to save projects, and use a shareable embed or minted DOI to publish a live, interactive version anywhere.
How accurate are the results?
The solver uses established numerical methods, but results are for research and educational purposes and should be validated against experiment or professional review before you rely on them.