What does the term "displacement" refer to in naval engineering?

In naval engineering, "displacement" specifically refers to the volume of water that is displaced by a floating vessel. This concept is fundamental to understanding buoyancy and stability. When a ship is placed in the water, it pushes away a certain volume of water equal to the weight of the ship. This volume of water is what we refer to as the vessel's displacement, and it is crucial for calculating various parameters related to the ship's performance, stability, and radar cross-section.

Displacement is typically measured in long tons or cubic meters and is directly linked to the weight of the ship, including its structure, machinery, fuel, and cargo. This relationship is governed by Archimedes' principle, which states that an object submerged in a fluid experiences an upward buoyant force equal to the weight of the fluid it displaces. Understanding displacement helps engineers and officers ensure that vessels are safely loaded and trimmed for optimal performance and stability at sea.