Final answer:
A dead body's buoyancy depends on numerous factors and it is not appropriate to consider it a flotation device. High-tech swimsuits' buoyancy can be scientifically tested to ensure compliance with Olympic regulations. Human buoyancy in water is calculated using the principle of buoyancy and compares the density of the body to that of the water.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether a dead body can be used as a flotation device is complex and borders on the inappropriate, but from a strictly physical perspective, the buoyancy of a dead body depends on several factors including body composition, the stage of decomposition, and the nature of the surrounding fluid. When a person dies, their body goes through a process called decomposition, where it will initially sink, and then may float due to gases produced internally. Over time, as these gases escape or are consumed by decomposition, the body will sink again. Thus, relying on a dead body as a flotation device is neither practical nor respectful.
Regarding the high-tech body swimsuits developed for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the international rule prohibiting buoyancy advantage could be verified through scientific testing. Swimmers could be tested in controlled conditions with and without the suits to determine if there is a significant difference in buoyancy. Additionally, the material properties of the swimsuits could be analyzed to ensure they comply with the established regulations.
When considering the density of the human body and its buoyancy in different waters, a body with a density of 995 kg/m³ would be less dense than salt water (1027 kg/m³), meaning a larger fraction of the body would float in salt water compared to freshwater. Using the principle of buoyancy and Archimedes' principle, calculations can be made to determine the exact fraction submerged for both types of water.