What is stated in Archimedes' principle?

• A. The density of an object is always less than the fluid's density
• B. The weight of an object equals the buoyant force acting on it
• C. The buoyant force on an object equals the weight of the fluid displaced
• D. Buoyant force decreases as the object ascends in the fluid

Answer: (C)

Archimedes' principle states that the buoyant force on an object submerged in a fluid is equal to the weight of the fluid that the object displaces. This foundational concept in fluid mechanics underscores how objects experience an upward force when placed in a fluid, allowing them to float or appear lighter than they actually are. When an object is submerged, it pushes aside a certain volume of fluid, and the weight of this displaced fluid creates a buoyant force acting against gravity, enabling us to determine if the object will sink or float based on its density relative to the fluid.

Understanding this principle is crucial since it explains phenomena such as why ships float despite being made of heavy materials or how an object may feel lighter in water. It is important to note that the buoyant force depends solely on the volume of fluid displaced and not on the object's weight or density alone, which relates to why the other options do not correctly encapsulate the essence of Archimedes' principle.