1. What is the Speed of Boat in Still Water?

Definition: This calculator determines the speed of a boat in still water based on its upstream and downstream speeds.

Purpose: It helps boaters, engineers, and physics students understand and calculate the true speed of a boat independent of current.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( BS \) — Boat speed in still water (km/h)
• \( US \) — Upstream speed (against current, km/h)
• \( DS \) — Downstream speed (with current, km/h)

Explanation: The average of upstream and downstream speeds gives the boat's speed in still water because current effects cancel out.

3. Importance of Boat Speed Calculation

Details: Knowing the true speed helps in navigation planning, fuel consumption estimates, and understanding current effects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the boat's speed going upstream and downstream in km/h. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does this formula work?
A: The current's effect is subtracted when going upstream and added when going downstream, so averaging cancels the current's influence.

Q2: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses km/h, but the formula works with any consistent speed unit (mph, knots, etc.).

Q3: Can I calculate current speed from this?
A: Yes, current speed = (DS - US)/2. Once you have BS, current = DS - BS or BS - US.

Q4: Does this work for airspeed vs groundspeed?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to aircraft speed vs wind speed.

Q5: What if my upstream and downstream times are very different?
A: Large differences suggest strong current or changing conditions. Take multiple measurements for accuracy.