Quick Answer: The Displacement Vessel, also known as a Eureka can or overflow can, is a vessel with a side outlet for collecting the water pushed out when a solid is lowered into it, giving the volume of irregular solids.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Side outlet for collecting overflow in a measuring cylinder or beaker
Measures the volume of irregularly shaped solids
Used for Archimedes’ principle, buoyancy and density work
The vessel is filled until water runs from the side outlet and left to drain so the level sits exactly at the outlet. A solid tied on a thread is lowered in until fully immersed, and the water that flows out is caught and measured; its volume equals the volume of the solid. Laboratories and colleges in Trinidad and Tobago, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Liberia and Angola can buy the Displacement vessel through an export order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Displacement Vessel the same as a Eureka can?
Yes. It is also known as a Eureka can or overflow can.
