Creating Oxygen Onboard a Submarine: Electrolysis and Chloride Candles

TLDRLearn how submarines create oxygen onboard using electrolysis and chloride candles. Electrolysis involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity, while chloride candles burn to produce oxygen. Monitoring the atmosphere on a submarine is done using the CAMS (Central Atmospheric Monitoring System) to ensure crew safety.

Key insights

🔬Submarines use electrolysis to create oxygen by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity.

🕯️Chloride candles are used on submarines to release oxygen when the oxygen levels are low.

💨Monitoring the atmosphere on a submarine is crucial to ensure a safe environment for the crew.

🔄Electrolysis requires purified water and potassium hydroxide as an electrolyte to avoid releasing chlorine gas.

🔒Chloride candles should be handled carefully to prevent any fires or accidents on the submarine.

Q&A

How does electrolysis work in creating oxygen onboard a submarine?

Electrolysis involves running an electric current through water to split it into hydrogen and oxygen gases. The hydrogen is usually released, while the oxygen is used for breathing.

Why are chloride candles used to create oxygen on submarines?

Chloride candles are used as an emergency oxygen supply on submarines. When oxygen levels are low, the candles are burned to release oxygen and replenish the supply.

How is the atmosphere on a submarine monitored?

The atmosphere on a submarine is monitored using the CAMS (Central Atmospheric Monitoring System) that measures oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases to maintain a safe environment for the crew.

What precautions should be taken when handling chloride candles?

Chloride candles should be handled with caution to prevent fires or accidents onboard. The lighting process must be controlled, and the candles should be stored and used according to safety regulations.

Are there any alternatives to creating oxygen on submarines?

Besides electrolysis and chloride candles, submarines may also have emergency oxygen supplies in the form of chemical oxygen generators or other specialized systems.

Timestamped Summary

03:45Submarines create oxygen onboard using two methods: electrolysis and chloride candles.

12:10Electrolysis involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity and potassium hydroxide.

14:59Chloride candles are used as an emergency oxygen supply when oxygen levels are low on the submarine.

18:40Monitoring the atmosphere on a submarine is vital for maintaining a safe environment for the crew.

21:15Chloride candles should be handled carefully to prevent fires or accidents on the submarine.