What is the scientific explanation behind the functioning of a waterpipe?

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SUMMARY

A waterpipe, also known as hubbly bubbly, hookah, or shisha, is an oriental smoking device that utilizes flavored tobacco. It consists of several components, including a head for the tobacco, aluminum foil, hot charcoal, and a water chamber. The smoker inhales through a tube connected to the water container, which cools the smoke as it bubbles through the water. The mechanism relies on pressure differences, allowing smoke to travel from the bowl, through the water, and into the smoker's mouth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the components of a waterpipe, including the head, charcoal, and water chamber.
  • Knowledge of basic physics principles, particularly pressure differentials.
  • Familiarity with the types of tobacco used in waterpipes.
  • Awareness of the health implications associated with smoking flavored tobacco.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the health effects of smoking flavored tobacco using waterpipes.
  • Explore the differences between waterpipes and other smoking devices like bongs.
  • Learn about the various types of flavored tobacco available for waterpipes.
  • Investigate the cultural significance and history of waterpipe smoking in different regions.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for smokers, cultural enthusiasts, and health professionals interested in the mechanics and implications of waterpipe use.

Moneer81
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Hey,

A waterpipe (alsno known as hubbly bubbly, hookah, shisha) is an oriental smoking device, that uses flavored tobacco (different than a bong, which is used to smoke illicit drugs). It consists of several parts: the head where the tobbaco sits, and is usually covered by aluminum paper where a piece of hot charcoal sits. The smoker inhales through a pipe but somehow that is connected to a water container that bubbles (and hence the name hubbly bubbly) as you inhale. Has anyone seen it or know how it works? I own one and I haven't been able to figure it out...
 
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There is a stem attached to the bottom of the tobacco bowl which is submersed in the water. The ends of the tubes through which you draw the smoke are in the closed water chamber above the surface of the water. When you draw on the tube you lower the pressure above the water. Since the bowl is at atmospheric pressure air (containing smoke) travels down the stem of the bowl passes through the water and up to the mouth. Delivering the cooled deadly gas.