bottentäta

Bottentäta is a Swedish term that translates to "bottom-dense" or "bottom-heavy." It is often used in nautical contexts to describe a vessel that has its weight concentrated towards the lower part of its hull. This distribution of mass contributes to a vessel's stability, making it less prone to capsizing. A well-designed boat will typically have a bottentäta structure, with heavy components like the keel, ballast, and engines positioned as low as possible. This low center of gravity enhances the boat's ability to withstand rolling motions caused by waves or wind. Conversely, a vessel that is not bottentäta, meaning its weight is distributed higher up, would be considered less stable and more susceptible to tipping over. The principle of bottentäta is a fundamental aspect of naval architecture and is crucial for the safe operation of any watercraft, from small sailboats to large ships. It is a key factor considered during the design and construction phases to ensure seaworthiness and passenger safety.