Translation and Meaning of: 浮力 - furyoku

The word 「浮力」 (furyoku) in Japanese refers to the physical concept of "buoyancy" or "upward force," which is the upward force that a fluid exerts on a body immersed, either partially or completely. This idea is closely linked to the famous Archimedes' Principle, which states that an object immersed in a fluid experiences an upward force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. The application of this principle is seen in everyday situations, such as when a ship floats on water or a balloon rises to the surface.

Etymologically, 「浮力」 is composed of two kanji: 「浮」 (fu) meaning "to float" and 「力」 (ryoku) meaning "force." The kanji 「浮」 has the connotation of lightness and suspension, while 「力」 conveys the idea of power or energy. This combination is quite literal, as it directly expresses the action of floating, propelled by natural forces. Understanding this concept is important not only in a physical context but also has applications in fields such as engineering and navigation.

Historical and Cultural Aspects

Historically, the concept of buoyancy and the use of the term 「浮力」 is not exclusive to Japan, but is part of a broader understanding of the natural world. However, its linguistic expression in Japanese offers a cultural perspective on how different peoples incorporate scientific concepts into their everyday languages. Although the technical language of physics today is largely universal, the nuances of words in native languages reflect the way a culture understands and teaches science.

In Japanese education, learning about 「浮力」 is an entry point for students into physics and the natural sciences. They often conduct hands-on experiments to observe buoyancy, such as submerging objects of different densities in water. This practical experience not only clarifies the concept but also enriches understanding of buoyant forces while connecting theory to real-world examples. Understanding 「浮力」 is fundamental for professions like naval engineering and aviation, where the balance of forces is crucial for the safe and efficient design of projects.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 浮揚力 (fuyōryoku) - Buoyancy, commonly used in contexts of physics and engineering.
• 浮遊力 (fuyūryoku) - Ability to float or be suspended in a medium, often associated with liquids or gases.
• 浮上力 (fujōryoku) - Force that allows an object to rise or elevate itself, especially in relation to a liquid.
• 浮力量 (furyōryoku) - The amount of buoyant force, often referring to the measure of an object's ability to float.
• 浮力作用 (furyokuyakuw) - The effect or action of the buoyant force on an object in a fluid medium.

浮力

Romaji: furyoku
Kana: ふりょく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: buoyancy; floating power

Meaning in English: buoyancy;floating power

Definition: The force that supports an object in a liquid or gas. The force that pushes an object upwards when it is immersed in a liquid or gas.

Example Sentences - (浮力) furyoku

See below some example sentences:

浮力は水中で物体が浮く力です。

Furyoku wa suichuu de buttai ga fuku chikara desu

Buoyancy is the force that makes objects float in water.

Buoyancy is the power of the object floating underwater.

• 浮力 - buoyancy force
• は - Topic particle
• 水中 - in water
• で - Location particle
• 物体 - object
• が - subject particle
• 浮く - to float
• 力 - strength
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present