system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5: Why weren't cannons on wooden ships aimed downwards to destroy the keel?

I'm sure the answer will be obvious, but would have guessed sinking would have been beneficial over just destroying a ships sailing ability. At least from what I've been able to find.
gpt
The angles most battles happened at would mean the shot would have to go through water to hit the keel, and water is VERY good at stopping high velocity impacts. Also in the age of sail, you usualy wanted to capture the ship and take it home, either as your own ship or for a “salvage” prize from the government. Basically the government would buy the spoils of war.