METACENTRE Meaning and
Definition
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The term metacentre refers to a critical concept in naval architecture and fluid dynamics. It specifically represents the position of the metacenter, which is a theoretical point of a floating or submerged body. The metacenter is particularly significant in the study of stability and equilibrium of ships, submarines, and other vessels.
In technical terms, the metacenter can be defined as the intersection between the vertical line passing through the center of buoyancy, the center of gravity of the body, and the vertical line as the vessel heels or rolls due to external factors such as waves or wind. It is a point defined by the stability characteristics of the vessel.
The metacenter plays an essential role in determining the stability of a floating or submerged body. Its position relative to the center of gravity affects the ability of a vessel to resist tipping over or returning to its original upright position after experiencing external forces. If the metacenter is positioned below the center of gravity, the vessel tends to have a stable equilibrium. Conversely, if the metacenter is located above the center of gravity, the body may exhibit unstable behavior, making it more prone to capsizing.
Understanding the metacentre and its relationship with the center of gravity is vital in ensuring the safe operation and design of ships and other floating structures, as it directly affects their stability and responsiveness to external forces.
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A certain point in a floating body, upon the position of which the stability of the body depends.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for METACENTRE
- metacenterr
- metacentre
- metacenter
- netacentre
- ketacentre
- jetacentre
- mwtacentre
- mstacentre
- mdtacentre
- mrtacentre
- m4tacentre
- m3tacentre
- meracentre
- mefacentre
- megacentre
- meyacentre
- me6acentre
- me5acentre
- metzcentre
- metscentre
Etymology of METACENTRE
The word "metacentre" is derived from two Greek words: "meta" meaning "beyond" or "after", and "kentron" meaning "center". The combination of these two words forms the term "metacentron", which was later anglicized as "metacentre". "Meta" suggests a position beyond or after, while "kentron" refers to the center. In naval architecture and ship stability, the term "metacentre" refers to the point of intersection between the vertical line passing through the center of buoyancy and the new position of the center of buoyancy when a ship is tipped or inclined.
Similar spelling words for METACENTRE
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