Physics for Submarines
Understanding How Science Keeps Submarines Afloat and Under Control
Presented by: Hashim Mazhar
Buoyancy & Ballast Control
• Archimedes’ Principle: Upward buoyant force = weight of displace
• Air in tanks → Submarine floats
• Water in tanks → Submarine sinks
• Neutral balance → Submarine hovers at constant depth
• Formula: FB = ρ g V
Pressure & Structure
• Pressure increases with depth: P = ρ g h
• Cylindrical, steel/titanium hull resists crushing
• Streamlined shape reduces drag
• Double-hull structure for safety and strength
Propulsion & Control
• Propeller pushes water backward → submarine moves forward
• Rudders control direction; hydroplanes control depth
• Powered by nuclear or electric engines
“A submarine is a perfect blend of physics and engineering beneath