Ocean water compression question

In summary, the question asks how much higher the ocean would get if 1 cubic meter of water was added to it, given that the ocean is 3800 meters deep and 1 meter wide in either direction. It is suggested that the addition of water would create a new compressed layer on the bottom, causing the former surface to be compressed with 2 meters of water on top, and so on to the bottom. This question has also been discussed on another forum.
  • #1
normana
3
0
To simplify this question, let's say the ocean is 3800 meters deep and 1 meter wide in either direction. Now let's add water equaling 1 cu meter on top. How much higher does the ocean get?
 
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  • #2
I suspect adding a meter on top is the equivalent of creating a new compressed layer on the bottom since the addition of the water makes the former surface compressed with the weight of the new water on top, the layer that was formerly 1 meter deep is now compressed with 2 meters of water on top, and so forth all the way to the bottom
 
  • #3
Different forum, same question:

https://www.researchgate.net/post/Are_liquids_compressible
 
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1. What is ocean water compression?

Ocean water compression is the process by which the pressure of water in the ocean increases with depth. This is due to the weight of the water above exerting force on the water below.

2. Why does ocean water compress?

Ocean water compresses because of the increasing weight of the water column as depth increases. This weight creates a force that squeezes the water molecules together, making the water more dense and causing it to compress.

3. How does ocean water compression affect marine life?

Ocean water compression can have significant impacts on marine life. It can affect the distribution of species, as some organisms may not be able to survive at certain depths due to the high pressure. It can also impact the physiology of marine animals, as they may need to adapt to the changes in pressure in order to survive.

4. How is ocean water compression measured?

Ocean water compression is typically measured in units of pressure, such as pounds per square inch (psi) or atmospheres (atm). Scientists use specialized instruments, such as pressure gauges or oceanographic sensors, to measure the pressure at different depths in the ocean.

5. Can ocean water compression cause problems for humans?

Yes, ocean water compression can cause problems for humans, particularly for divers and deep-sea explorers. If they do not properly equalize their ears and lungs as they descend, they can experience discomfort or even serious injury due to the increasing pressure. Additionally, ocean water compression can also damage underwater structures, such as pipelines or cables, if they are not designed to withstand the high pressures.

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