Solving the Float a Buck problem is more of understanding the concept of displacement than a

specific formula. Displacement works by understanding that the weight of the ship $($or

whatever is floating$)$ is equal to the weight of the water displaced.

So$,$ for example, if you have a square$-$bottom boat $($such as the one in the diagram below$)$ with

the pennies inside, it will weigh a specific amount. When that sits in the water, it will sink down

a bit; the weight of the "footprint" in the water is equal to the weight of the loaded boat. Here

are the steps $($here$\text{'}$s another hint: it's easier to do this in metric$)$ to proving that your boat will

float:

Calculate $($or weigh$)$ the aluminum foil and the pennies, this is also the weight of the

water displaced.....and, if you are using metric, it's also the volume of water $($remember

to tell me why in your report$)$

Using the boat geometry you have determined, you know the area $($L $xW)$ of your boat's

footprint in the water

Set the volume of the water $($from step $1)$ equal to the volume $(LWH$ of the boat

$($but leave the height as a variable.

called H $)$

You should be able to solve for H ; this calculates the amount your boat sinks in the

water

Compare the calculated value of H to the actual wall height of your boat. If the actual

height is greater than the calculated value, your boat will float.

Hopefully that makes sense. Let me know if you have any questions or issues.