Submarine Survival: Navigating the Dangers of the Deep Ocean

When discussing the safety and survival principles in the marine environment, particularly in relation to submarines, it's important to address misconceptions and outline the actual risks involved. This article aims to illuminate the dangers of attempting to survive in the depths of the ocean if a situation as described in the prompt were to occur.

The Myth Busted: Can You Survive on Ocean Floor?

The idea of surviving on the ocean floor if a submarine or ship sinks seems intriguing but is significantly flawed, as it mixes unrelated and nonsensical concepts. Let's break down why this is an impossible scenario and explore the harsh realities of deep-sea survival.

Understanding Ocean Pressure

Firstly, the pressure at the bottom of the ocean is immense and can be fatal. For instance, the average pressure at the bottom of the Mariana Trench is 1086 bars, which is about 1575 times the atmospheric pressure at sea level. This pressure is equivalent to the pressure of being at a depth of approximately 16,000 feet underwater. The human body is not built to withstand such conditions; the internal organs would be crushed instantly, making survival virtually impossible.

The Dangers of Diving to the Ocean Floor

Should one attempt to survive on the ocean floor without proper equipment, they would face the following hazards:

Pressure Crush Injuries: The pressure at such depths would compress the body's tissues and fluids, leading to severe internal damage. Drowning: Even if the individual managed to withstand the pressure, the air in their lungs would be compressed, making it impossible to breathe. Oxygen would be in such short supply that any attempt to inhale would lead to immediate drowning. Temperature Extremes: The temperatures at the bottom of the ocean can be as low as -2 degrees Celsius, which would result in rapid hypothermia and further complications.

The cold, pressure, and lack of breathable air would make survival on the ocean floor an insurmountable challenge.

Better Options for Submarine Survival

In the event of a submarine sinking, the best approach to survival is:

Escaping to the Surface: Closest to the top of the list is opening the hatches and swimming to the surface. While this might be dangerous due to decompression and the risk of injury, it is generally the safer of the two options, assuming it can be done. Using Emergency Escape Systems: Many modern submarines are equipped with emergency escape systems, which should be used when hatches cannot be opened. However, even with these systems, the individual must be prepared for the cold and the possibility of unconsciousness due to the transition to the surface.

It's crucial to note that in any submarine emergency, the first step is to follow proper procedures as outlined in the vessel's safety manual. Personal safety devices like emergency escape breathing apparatus (EEBA) and life jackets are also critical in such situations.

Professional Deep-Sea Diving Gear

For those who do work in the deep ocean, specialized equipment is a must. These suits are expensive and complex, designed to withstand extreme pressures, provide breathable oxygen, and regulate temperature. Professional deep-sea divers must be trained extensively to handle this equipment and understand the risks associated with their work.

In conclusion, attempting to survive on the ocean floor if a submarine sinks is not only impractical but also dangerously misguided. The best chance of survival in such a situation is to escape to the surface or use the submarine's emergency systems. Professional deep-sea divers have specialized gear that allows them to work safely in these conditions, but this equipment is not meant for non-professionals and should be used only under trained supervision.