Nautical Term: Centre of buoyancy (CB)
Definition of Centre of buoyancy (CB)
The Center of Buoyancy (CB) is the point where the buoyancy force acts. It is defined in space by its longitudinal, vertical, and transverse (respectively, LCB, VCB, and TCB) position relative to a set of orthogonal axes. Additionally, it is the centroid of the volume of the displaced water.
For example, consider a sailboat in the water. The buoyancy force acting on the boat is equal and opposite to the weight of the boat and its contents. The CB is the point where this buoyancy force acts on the boat. If the weight of the boat is evenly distributed, then the CB is located at the metacenter of the boat, which is typically a stable location. However, if the weight distribution of the boat is not even, then the CB may be located at a less stable location, such as the fore or aft of the boat. In such cases, the boat may be more susceptible to capsizing or heeling excessively.
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