Exploring the Titanic Submarine: Unveiling the Physics of Underwater Implosion
Dear Deep-Thinkers,
In this edition of Deep Thinker, we will delve into the unchartered power of the ocean and its immense pressure. Not to sound so morbid due to current news, but it's pretty exciting and fascinating. Let me start by saying: when there's an underwater implosion, unfortunately, no single body or even a skeleton will likely be found. One simple fact, a single second after an implosion(Note, an implosion, not an explosion, signifies the pressure was from inside), as the water moves in to fill the void, there's a decompression of the surrounding water. So let's look at the physics of this; I promise not to bore you.
As an illustration, we will examine the case of a Titan submarine expedition to the wreckage of the Titanic and the contrasting fate it faces with the iconic vessel itself.
The Enigma of Underwater Implosion
Deep beneath the ocean's surface, immense water pressure presses upon every object in its path. This force intensifies with increasing depth, creating an environment where even the most robust structures face tremendous challenges. The process by which an object collapses due to this pressure is known as underwater implosion.
Understanding the Physics
To comprehend the unique physics at play during the underwater implosion, we must first explore the concept of pressure. Every square inch of an object is subjected to an extraordinary amount of pressure in the ocean, increasing by roughly one atmosphere for every 33 feet of depth. Consequently, the pressure experienced at extreme depths can be thousands of times greater than that at the ocean's surface.
When an object, such as a small submarine, ventures to great depths, the external pressure exerted by the surrounding water increases exponentially. As the pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the submarine intensifies, it reaches a critical point where the structure can no longer withstand the external force. The submarine succumbs to the overwhelming pressure at this stage, leading to a catastrophic implosion.
The Mechanics of Underwater Implosion
Underwater implosion occurs when an object submerged in water collapses inward due to the immense external pressure exerted by the surrounding fluid. The key to comprehending this phenomenon lies in understanding the principles of pressure differentials and structural integrity.
1. Pressure Differentials
Deep below the ocean's surface, water exerts a substantial amount of pressure on all objects immersed within it. This hydrostatic pressure increases with depth, exerting force uniformly in all directions. For every 33 feet of descent, the pressure increases by roughly one atmosphere, resulting in exponential growth of pressure with depth.
When an object, such as a human body, finds itself submerged at great depths, the surrounding water applies immense pressure on every part of its surface. This pressure creates a significant difference between the internal and external pressures experienced by the body.
2. Structural Integrity
To understand the fate of a body in the depths, we must examine the interplay between the body's structure and the forces acting upon it. The structural integrity of an object determines its ability to withstand external pressure.
In the case of a body submerged at great depths, the external pressure exerted by the surrounding water becomes overwhelming. If the body lacks sufficient structural strength, it will succumb to this immense force, leading to its collapse and implosion. The body's internal organs and softer tissues are particularly vulnerable to intense pressure differentials, causing them to be compressed and crushed.
It's important to note that in a recent interview, James Cameroon, the producer of the movie 'titanic' announced he had gone to the depth of the ocean 33 times, and I was so flabbergasted that I researched how his submarine looked compared with the currency one that imploded and structural integrity played a significant role.
The Vanishing Body Phenomenon
The disappearance of a body without a trace in the context of underwater implosion is primarily attributed to two factors: the rapid and violent nature of the implosion and the subsequent dispersion of remains.
1. Violent Implosion
When a body implodes underwater, the collapse occurs rapidly and violently. The immense external pressure causes the body to crumple inward, often disintegrating into fragments due to the sheer force involved. The suddenness and violence of the implosion can result in the fragmentation and disintegration of the body, making it difficult to find recognizable evidence.
2. Remains Dispersion
Once a body has imploded, the fragmented remains are subject to the powerful forces of ocean currents and turbulence. These forces can scatter the remains over a wide area, making it challenging to locate and recover specific body parts. Additionally, marine organisms may consume or scatter the remains, further complicating the retrieval process.
The Titanic's Paradoxical Fate
Now, let's examine the fascinating contrast between the Titanic submarine and the Titanic. Imagine the scenario of the wrecked Titanic submarine carrying five intrepid explorers venturing to the depths of the ocean to visit the wreckage of the Titanic.
Upon reaching extreme depths, the Titanic submarine would face an unfortunate demise. The immense external pressure would cause the vessel to collapse in on itself, unable to withstand the overwhelming force. Consequently, evidence of the submarine, including any unfortunate occupants, would be virtually impossible to recover due to the violent nature of the implosion.
On the other hand, the Titanic itself, despite being submerged for over a century, remains remarkably intact. How is this possible? The answer lies in the design and construction of the colossal vessel. The Titanic was built to withstand the pressures of the ocean, with robust steel hulls and a well-thought-out structural framework. While corrosion and gradual deterioration have occurred over time, the Titanic's massive structure has largely remained intact, resisting the forces that would otherwise cause it to implode.
Conclusion
The physics behind underwater implosion presents a captivating and often perilous phenomenon. Understanding the immense pressures exerted in the depths of the ocean sheds light on why evidence of a body is rarely found after such catastrophic events. As demonstrated by the contrasting fate of the Titanic submarine, James Cameroon and the Titanic, the design and construction of a submerged object play a pivotal role in determining its susceptibility to the crushing forces of underwater implosion.
Thank you for joining us on this enlightening exploration of underwater implosion and its consequences. Also, this newsletter goes without 'we' at the deep-thinker wishes the most profound condolences to the five people that died in the recent Titanic submarine that crashed near the wreckage of the 'popular' Titanic. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the deep ocean, your courageous exploration won't be forgotten so fast. Rest In Peace!!
Warm Regards,
Bolu.