Why does a ship built from heavy metal float on water while actually sink in water?

A ship built from heavy metal floats on water due to the principles of buoyancy and displacement. Buoyancy refers to the upward force exerted by a fluid (in this case, water) that opposes the weight of an object submerged in it. When a ship is placed in water, it displaces an amount of water equal to its own weight. The buoyant force acting on the ship is equal to the weight of the water displaced, which keeps it afloat.

The ability of a ship to float depends on its overall density compared to the density of water. The average density of a ship, including its hull, cargo, and other components, must be less than the density of water for it to float. Ships are designed with hollow chambers and compartments to increase their overall volume and reduce their average density, allowing them to displace more water and experience greater buoyant force.

While a ship floats on water, it can sink if its density increases beyond that of water. This can occur due to various factors, such as taking on too much water through damage or flooding, overloading the ship with cargo, or changes in the ship's internal structure or design. When the average density of the ship becomes greater than the density of water, the buoyant force is no longer sufficient to support its weight, causing the ship to sink.