The equilibrium of floating bodies is of the following three types:

1. Stable equilibrium. If a body floating in a liquid returns back to its original position, when given a small angular displacement, then the body is said to be in stable equilibrium.

2. Unstable equilibrium. If a body floating in a liquid does not return back to its original position and heels farther away when given a small angular displacement, then the body is said to be in unstable equilibrium.

3. Neutral equilibrium. If a body floating in a liquid occupies a new position and remains at rest in this new position, when given a small angular displacement, then the body is said to be in neutral equilibrium.