Calculating Buoyancy to Find a Polar Bear's Mass

In summary, the conversation revolves around calculating the mass of a polar bear partially in water and partially on a slab of ice. It is determined that the amount of the bear in the water and the specific gravity of the ice are necessary factors in the calculation. Further information is needed to accurately calculate the mass.
  • #1
thegreatone
5
0
Buoyancy ... HELP NEEDED

A polar bear is partially in water and partially on a slab of ice. The ice sinks to some extent. Calculate the bear's mass.

How can this be done?

I know it comes down to forces but how . . .
 
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  • #2
Not forces - it will come down to how much of the bear is in the water and how much is out of the water. However much is out of the water will directly add to the mass of the ice slab, causing it to sink lower, displacing that much more water.

Of course, you can't answer this question without more information (unless you are merely providing an algebraic answer.)
 
  • #3
70% is out of the water
voume of the ice is 10m^3
bear's specific gravity is 1.0
 
  • #4
someone please help ... please
 
  • #5
help anyone :confused:
 
  • #6
You still haven't given us enough information: the ice sinks "to some extent". How much?
The bear's specific gravity is exactly the same as water? What is the specific gravity of the ice?
 

FAQ: Calculating Buoyancy to Find a Polar Bear's Mass

How is buoyancy used to find a polar bear's mass?

Buoyancy is a force that acts on an object submerged in a fluid, pushing it upwards. By calculating the buoyancy force acting on a polar bear in water, we can determine its mass.

What factors affect the buoyancy of a polar bear in water?

The buoyancy of a polar bear is affected by its volume, density, and the density of the water it is submerged in. The volume of the polar bear can change due to factors such as lung capacity, while the density can vary based on the amount of fat and air trapped in its fur.

How is the buoyancy force calculated?

The buoyancy force is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. This can be calculated using the formula F = ρVg, where ρ is the density of the fluid, V is the volume of the object, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

How can the buoyancy of a polar bear be measured?

The buoyancy of a polar bear can be measured by submerging it in a tank of water and measuring the amount of water displaced. The difference between the weight of the polar bear and the weight of the displaced water is the buoyancy force, which can be used to calculate its mass.

Why is it important to calculate the buoyancy of a polar bear?

Calculating the buoyancy of a polar bear can provide valuable information about its health and body composition. This information can be used to track changes in the polar bear's condition and inform conservation efforts. It can also help scientists better understand the physiology and behavior of polar bears in their natural habitat.

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