An implosion of a submersible vessel (Such as the Missing Titanic “Titan” Sub Crew) at about two miles deep (approximately 3200 meters or 10,500 feet) is an extremely catastrophic event caused by the immense water pressure at such depths.
This article delves into the mechanics of this implosion and the fatal effects it would have on any passengers on board.
The Mechanics of Submarine Implosion
At two miles deep, a submarine would be subjected to pressures around 6000 PSI or 400 atmospheres, which is significantly higher than the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level.
Submarines are designed to withstand such extreme pressures, but if the hull of the submarine was damaged, it could cause a leak. This leak would rapidly equalize the pressure difference between the interior and the exterior of the submarine, leading to an implosion1.
The implosion would happen almost instantly, with the force of the surrounding water crushing the submarine. The vessel would likely explode due to the rapid compression, resulting in the total destruction of the submarine1.
The Human Experience of Implosion
Despite the extreme violence of an implosion event, those inside the submarine would likely not be aware of what was happening. The implosion would occur so quickly that passengers wouldn’t even know it happened. The rapid change in pressure would be instantaneous, giving no time for anyone on board to react or experience the event1.
The Effect of Pressure on the Human Body
The human body has a remarkable ability to withstand various conditions, but the pressure at two miles under the sea far exceeds our biological limits. Here’s what would happen to the human body under such intense pressure:
- Respiratory System: The pressure of the water would be too great for the muscles that expand and contract our lungs to function properly. Initially, this would make breathing extremely difficult and eventually impossible. The lungs would collapse completely at great enough depths, leading to instant death2.
- Circulatory System: Under extreme pressure, the body triggers a “dive-response”, which pushes blood toward the heart and brain. While this mechanism can help balance out the pressure from the surrounding water, it can’t be sustained for long. Additionally, the stress caused by the redistribution of blood could lead to a loss of consciousness or death2.
- Physical Injury: The sudden and extreme change in pressure could cause severe internal injuries, such as bleeding into the lungs. This could occur even before the lungs collapse completely2.
FAQ
How do submarines resist the pressure at such extreme depths?
Submarines are designed with sturdy and rigid hulls that can withstand the tremendous pressure of deep waters. The hulls are usually made of high-strength steel or titanium which are capable of resisting the intense pressure. In addition, the design and structure of submarines also contribute to their ability to withstand pressure. The hull is typically rounded, which helps distribute the pressure evenly across the surface, reducing the risk of implosion.
Are there any measures in place to prevent a submarine from imploding at great depths?
Yes, submarines are equipped with various safety measures to prevent implosions. This includes reinforcing the hull of the submarine, maintaining the air pressure inside the submarine equal to the water pressure outside, and utilizing advanced materials that can withstand high pressure. Additionally, the submarines are also equipped with emergency surfacing systems that can bring the vessel to the surface quickly in case of a catastrophic event.
What is the deepest a human has ever dived without a submersible?
The current record for the deepest free dive (without a submersible or breathing apparatus) is held by Herbert Nitsch, who reached a depth of 702 feet (214 meters) in 2007. However, this is an extremely dangerous and specialized activity, and it is not something that most people can or should attempt. The intense pressure at such depths can have severe effects on the human body, including lung collapse and other potentially fatal conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an implosion of a submarine at a depth of two miles is a catastrophic event that would result in the instant destruction of the vessel and the instantaneous death of anyone inside. The intense pressure at such depths is far beyond the limits of human endurance, leading to rapid and fatal changes in the body. While this is a grim topic, understanding the forces at work in the deep ocean can help us appreciate the power and scale of the natural world.
Note: This article is based on the current understanding of physics, engineering, and human physiology. Given the extreme conditions involved, exact predictions are challenging to make. However, this scenario is largely based on established principles and known incidents.
References
- “What does an imploded Titanic submarine actually mean?” HITC. Accessed June 22, 20231.
- “Breaking Point: How Much Water Pressure Can The Human Body Take?” Medical Daily. Accessed June 22, 20232.
- “Lost Titanic submarine imploded 2 miles down during fatal descent in Atlantic Ocean.” CNET. Published June 1, 2023. Accessed June 22, 20233.
- Business Insider. “What would happen if a submarine imploded?” Published 2013. Accessed June 22, 20234.
Article by Sportfishhub.
