Underwater Cities: Exploring the Possibilities of Science & Tech

  • Thread starter Reflector
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Cool Ocean
In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of highly developed ocean cities with underwater and above water sectors, connected by fast speed trains and vehicles. The constraints for such cities currently are economic and scientific, but it is possible to have smaller versions for resource extraction or in case of overpopulation. However, maintaining a pocket of breathable air at the bottom of the ocean is a challenging and potentially harmful endeavor for human physiology.
  • #1
Reflector
50
0
Will science and technology someday allow really highly developed ocean cities with an underwater sector with lights illuminating and stuff and an above water sector where you travel on say flying scooters. Fast speed trains could connect the cities. I guess right now the constraints are economic and scientific... underwater drive-in! You travel slower in the ocean... I would really like to contribute to scientific knowledge if this could be done.
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
  • #2
I could see a small version of this happening because the ocean floor is rich in resources and small base would be an easy way of extracting those resources. Cities would only show up if overpopulation became a huge issue. Thats my take on it anyway.
 
  • #3
That would be pretty neat. Making under water cities like in Civilazation: CTP. Anyone played that?
 
  • #4
Maintaining a small pocket of breathable air at ~1 atm at the bottom of the ocean is a hugely challenging endeavor. The technology to maintain a pocket the size of a city is probably hundreds or thousands of years away still.

Maintaining a pocket of pressurized air at the bottom of the ocean is considerably easier, though still no small feat. Unfortunately, human physiology does not seem to respond well to long exposures to those kinds of gas pressures. High-pressure nervous syndrome, bone decalcification, and other problems arise.

- Warren
 

1. What is an underwater city?

An underwater city is a human-made structure or settlement built below the surface of a body of water. It may be partially or completely submerged, and typically consists of buildings, infrastructure, and technology to support human life and activities.

2. How are underwater cities built?

Underwater cities are typically built using specialized construction techniques and materials that can withstand the unique challenges of being submerged in water. These may include reinforced concrete, corrosion-resistant metals, and advanced waterproofing technologies. Additionally, specialized equipment and techniques, such as diving and underwater construction vehicles, are used to carry out the building process.

3. What are the benefits of building underwater cities?

There are several potential benefits to building underwater cities. These may include alleviating overcrowding in coastal areas, providing a solution to rising sea levels and climate change, and expanding human habitation to new and unexplored territories. Additionally, underwater cities may offer unique opportunities for scientific research and development, such as studying marine life and ecosystems.

4. What are the challenges of building underwater cities?

Building underwater cities presents several challenges, including the high cost of construction and maintenance, the need for specialized technology and expertise, and the potential environmental impact on marine life and ecosystems. Additionally, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in a submerged environment can be a significant challenge.

5. What technologies are being developed for underwater cities?

There are several technologies currently being developed for underwater cities, including underwater habitats and structures, advanced waterproofing materials, and renewable energy sources such as tidal and wave energy. Additionally, research is being conducted on sustainable food production and waste management systems for underwater communities.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
840
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Science Fiction and Fantasy Media
Replies
13
Views
5K
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Art, Music, History, and Linguistics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • General Discussion
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
15
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top