Potential difference across water and oil causing explosion, how?

In summary: This is why the fire marshal concluded that the explosion was caused by cleaning the ship with water. In summary, the fire marshal determined that the explosion on the oil tanker was caused by using a high-pressure hose to clean the ship, which created an electrostatic charge in the mist and ignited the gas with a spark or discharge.
  • #1
ericzxvc
1
0
Question:

"An oil tanker has just entered port and is being cleaned using a high-pressure hose. The washing of the hull and deck continues until there is a large explosion. The fire marshal investigates and pronounces that the explosion was the result of cleaning the ship with water. Explain his or her reasoning."

This question is on an electric fields assignment so the answer is related to that, it is quite vague and hard to research an answer.

However, I think the answer is something along the lines of the water causing an electrostatic charged mist which creates a potential difference and ignites the gas due to a discharge across this potential difference. Can anyone verify this/explain this in a clearer way?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yes, this is a plausible explanation for the fire marshal's reasoning. When high-pressure water is used to clean an oil tanker, it can create an electrostatic charge in the mist that is generated by the water droplets. This creates a potential difference between different areas of the tanker, which can cause a spark or discharge when the potential difference reaches a certain level. When this spark or discharge occurs in the presence of flammable gas, it can ignite the gas, resulting in an explosion.
 

FAQ: Potential difference across water and oil causing explosion, how?

What is potential difference and how does it cause explosions in water and oil?

Potential difference, also known as voltage, is a measure of the difference in electric potential between two points in a circuit. It is caused by the separation of electric charges. In the case of water and oil, when a potential difference is applied, it causes the molecules in the substances to become polarized, meaning that the positive and negative charges are separated. This polarization can lead to a buildup of electric charge, which can result in an explosion.

What factors contribute to the potential difference across water and oil?

The potential difference across water and oil is influenced by several factors, including the type of substance, the distance between the two substances, and the strength of the applied electric field. Different substances have different levels of electric conductivity, which can affect the potential difference. The distance between the substances can also impact the strength of the electric field, and therefore the potential difference.

Can the potential difference across water and oil be dangerous?

Yes, the potential difference across water and oil can be dangerous because it can lead to explosions. If a strong enough electric field is applied, it can cause a rapid buildup of charge and result in a violent explosion. Additionally, the presence of flammable materials can make the situation even more hazardous.

How can potential difference across water and oil be controlled?

Potential difference across water and oil can be controlled by using insulators to prevent the substances from coming into contact with each other. Insulators, such as rubber or plastic, do not allow electric charges to flow through them, which can prevent the buildup of charge and potential for an explosion. Additionally, proper grounding techniques can be used to dissipate any potential differences that may occur.

Are there any real-world applications of potential difference causing explosions in water and oil?

Yes, there are several real-world applications of potential difference causing explosions in water and oil. For example, in the oil and gas industry, the separation of oil and water can create a potential difference that can lead to explosions. This is why proper safety measures, such as grounding and insulation, are crucial in these industries. Additionally, in laboratories, the use of high voltage equipment near water or oil substances can also lead to potential differences and potential hazards if not handled properly.

Similar threads

Replies
39
Views
11K
Replies
4
Views
7K
Back
Top