Why do dolphins create air rings and how do they defy buoyancy?

In summary, dolphins produce air bubbles through their blowhole and can use them for communication, play, and herding fish. They cannot breathe in the bubbles and need to surface to take in air. Dolphins can also use air bubbles to sleep by shutting off one side of their brain. Air bubbles are not harmful to dolphins, but excessive exposure from human activity can cause stress and harm.
  • #1
Isaacsname
63
9
Hello,

I apologize in advance if this is the wrong section, it seemed the most appropriate

Dolphins are able to produce rings of air which seem to counteract buoyancy by rotating ( I'm assuming rotation )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bT-fctr32pE

How and why is this true ?

Thanks
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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  • #2
They don't counteract buoyancy, they are held in place by a whirlpool - and only for a limited time.

I am moving it to physics, it fits there much better.
 

1. How do dolphins produce air bubbles?

Dolphins produce air bubbles through their blowhole, a single nostril located on the top of their head. When they surface to breathe, they exhale forcefully, causing the air to rush out of their blowhole and create bubbles.

2. Why do dolphins create air bubbles?

Dolphins create air bubbles for various reasons. They may use them to communicate with other dolphins, to play and have fun, or to herd fish into a smaller area for easier hunting.

3. Can dolphins breathe in air bubbles?

No, dolphins cannot breathe in air bubbles. They need to surface and take in air through their blowhole to breathe. The air bubbles they create are simply exhaled air and do not contain enough oxygen for them to survive.

4. Do dolphins use air bubbles to sleep?

Yes, dolphins can use air bubbles to sleep. They have the ability to shut off one side of their brain while the other remains awake. This allows them to rest and surface for air periodically without fully waking up.

5. Are air bubbles harmful to dolphins?

No, air bubbles are not harmful to dolphins. In fact, they are a natural and important part of their behavior and communication. However, too much exposure to bubbles from human activity, such as boat propellers, can cause stress and harm to dolphins.

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