Can a person have negative buoyancy?

General Forum
1

I’ve heard that some people naturally sink in water. Does this mean they have negative buoyancy? What factors determine this?

2

Yes, negative buoyancy happens when someone’s density is greater than water. Lean and muscular people are more likely to sink.

3

Elliott said:
Yes, negative buoyancy happens when someone’s density is greater than water. Lean and muscular people are more likely to sink.

That makes sense. I’ve noticed I sink after exhaling. Does lung capacity play a big role?

4

@Fallon
Definitely! Air in your lungs adds buoyancy. When you exhale, your body’s density increases, making you more likely to sink.

5

Body fat plays a role too. Fat is less dense than muscle, so people with higher body fat tend to float more easily.

6

I’m lean and always sink in pools. Even with full lungs, I barely stay afloat. It’s frustrating!