Calculating Pressure Underwater: How Does it Compare to Surface Pressure?

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In summary, to find the pressure of a diver at a depth of 10 times the surface pressure, you can calculate the weight of the column of water at that depth, using the volume and density of water. The weight density of water is 62.4 lb/ft^3 and the density of water is 1,000 kg/litre. Alternatively, you can also use the fact that 1 atm is equivalent to a column of 76 cm of mercury with a density of 13.6 kg/l, and calculate the height of the column if the mercury were replaced by water.
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colonel
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I want to find when the pressure of a diver is 10X that when she is on the surface of the ocean. I know that at the surface, the diver experiences a pressure of 1 atm. But how do I go about finding the pressure under water? Do I have to consider teh partial pressure of water?
 
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Its a piece of cake really. Air pressure is due to the weight of a column of air pushing down on you. Water pressure works the same way (though a little easier since water is essentially incompressible). So all you need to do is calculate the weight of that column of water at a specific depth. Its the volume times the density. (the weight density of water is 62.4 lb/ft^3)
 
  • #3
But also the density of water is 1,000 kg/litre by definition. And 1 Atm = a column of 76 cm of Hg (Torricelli) with a density of 13,6 kg/l. Now, how high would that column be if the Hg was to be replaced by water?
 

1. What is the pressure of a diver at 10X depth?

The pressure of a diver at 10X depth refers to the amount of force exerted on their body due to the weight of the water above them. At this depth, the pressure is 10 times greater than at the surface.

2. How does the pressure of a diver at 10X depth affect their body?

The increased pressure at 10X depth can cause various physiological changes in a diver's body, such as a decrease in heart rate, an increase in blood flow to vital organs, and compression of the lungs, making it harder to breathe.

3. What precautions should a diver take when diving at 10X depth?

Divers should follow proper safety protocols when diving at 10X depth, such as ensuring proper equipment and training, monitoring their air supply, and ascending slowly to avoid decompression sickness.

4. How does the pressure of a diver at 10X depth compare to other depths?

The pressure at 10X depth is significantly higher than at shallower depths, such as 5X or 2X. However, it is still lower than the maximum depth that professional divers typically reach, which can exceed 100X.

5. Can the pressure of a diver at 10X depth be dangerous?

The increased pressure at 10X depth can be dangerous for inexperienced or unprepared divers. It can lead to various health risks, including decompression sickness and nitrogen narcosis. However, with proper training and precautions, diving at 10X depth can be a safe and enjoyable experience.

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