archimedes' principle: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Both are acceptable in modern English. 'Archimedes' principle' (with just the apostrophe after the s) is very common, especially in scientific writing, as it follows the style for classical names ending in 's'. 'Archimedes's principle' is also used.

Yes, absolutely. Archimedes' principle applies to all fluids, which includes both liquids and gases. Lighter-than-air crafts like blimps and hot air balloons float in the atmosphere due to the buoyant force described by this principle.

Archimedes' principle describes the *force* (buoyancy) on an immersed object. Density is a material property. An object floats if its average density is less than the fluid's density, which is a consequence derived from applying Archimedes' principle and the force of gravity.

Yes, that is its primary application. For a fully submerged object, the principle gives the net upward buoyant force. Whether it then rises, sinks, or remains suspended depends on if this buoyant force is greater than, less than, or equal to the object's weight.

A law of physics stating that when a body is wholly or partially immersed in a fluid, it experiences an upthrust equal to the weight of the fluid displaced.

Archimedes' principle is usually academic / scientific / technical in register.

Archimedes' principle: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɑː.kɪˈmiː.diːz ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɑːr.kəˈmiː.diːz ˈprɪn.sə.pəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.