Question

Why does a sailboat need a keel?

Short answer

Keel helps to create a pressure difference underwater and counteracts the effect of wind which causes leeway.

Step-by-step solution

AboutKeel

A keel is a wing or fin that is attached to the bottom of the hull and extends into the water.

Role of a keel

When a sailboat is sailing into the wind, the wind around the sailboat creates a pressure difference and changes the path of the sailboat. To counteract this effect of wind, a keel is attached to the bottom of the sailboat which creates exactly opposite pressure difference underwater around the keel so that the path of the sailboat remains the same even when the wind is blowing. Furthermore, it adjusts its centre of gravity and avoids sideways movement of the sailboat. Hence, a keel is needed to keep track of the original path and for stability.