Metatsentriset

Metatsentriset refers to a concept primarily found in naval architecture and ship stability. It is the metacenter's position relative to the center of gravity of a floating body. The metacenter is a theoretical point of intersection for the line of action of the buoyant force and the vessel's centerline when the vessel is tilted.

The stability of a floating object is determined by the relationship between its center of gravity (G) and the metacenter (M). When a vessel is upright, the center of gravity and the metacenter are generally aligned vertically. If the vessel is heeled (tilted) to a small angle, the center of buoyancy shifts, causing the buoyant force to create an overturning moment.

If the metacenter (M) is above the center of gravity (G), the heeling moment will tend to right the vessel, indicating positive stability. The further M is above G, the greater the initial stability. If the metacenter is below the center of gravity, the heeling moment will tend to increase the tilt, leading to instability. In this case, the vessel will capsize. The distance between the metacenter and the center of gravity is known as the metacentric height (GM). A positive metacentric height is crucial for the safe operation of ships and boats. The concept of metatsentriset is therefore fundamental in calculating and ensuring the stability of marine vessels.