Submarines

No, David Bushnell did not invent the torpedo submarine, but he is credited with creating the first operational submarine, known as the Turtle, during the American Revolutionary War. The Turtle was designed to attach explosive charges to enemy ships, but it did not utilize torpedoes as we understand them today. The concept of the torpedo submarine evolved later, with significant advancements made in the 19th and 20th centuries.

After World War II, it is estimated that around 200 German submarines (U-boats) remained unaccounted for. Many of these submarines were lost during the war or scuttled by their crews to avoid capture. The exact number can vary due to different reporting methods and ongoing discoveries, but a significant portion of these vessels have never been found.

Submarines use periscopes to enable crew members to observe the surface of the water while remaining submerged. A periscope consists of a long tube with mirrors or prisms that allow light to enter from the surface and be redirected to the viewer’s eye. This allows for a 360-degree view of the surroundings, helping submarines to navigate, spot other vessels, and assess threats without exposing themselves. Modern submarines may also use advanced optical or electronic systems for enhanced surveillance capabilities.

A submarine operates primarily through its buoyancy control system, which includes ballast tanks that can be filled with water or air to dive or surface. Key components include the hull, designed to withstand underwater pressure; propulsion systems, typically diesel-electric or nuclear, for movement; and control surfaces like rudders and fins for navigation. Additionally, submarines are equipped with sonar for sensing the environment and communication systems for connectivity.

The average speed of a submarine pitcher typically ranges from 80 to 90 miles per hour (129 to 145 kilometers per hour) during a game. However, some skilled submarine pitchers can exceed this range, occasionally reaching speeds of up to 95 mph (153 kph). The unique throwing style, which involves a low arm slot and a sidearm delivery, can also affect pitch movement and deception.

In "The Hunt for Red October," the name of the Soviet submarine is the Red October. It is a highly advanced Typhoon-class submarine equipped with stealth technology and a unique propulsion system. The film, based on Tom Clancy's novel, follows the submarine's journey as it attempts to defect to the United States.

Pressure vessels in submarines are crucial for maintaining a stable internal environment despite the high external pressures of deep water. They house equipment and living quarters, ensuring crew safety and comfort by preventing water ingress. Additionally, these vessels are designed to withstand significant pressure differentials, allowing submarines to dive and operate at great depths without structural failure. Their integrity is vital for the overall performance and survivability of the submarine.

A pressure hull is a strong, sealed structure designed to withstand external pressure while maintaining a safe environment inside, commonly used in submarines and deep-sea vehicles. It is constructed from robust materials, such as steel or titanium, and is engineered to distribute stress evenly across its surface. As external water pressure increases with depth, the hull prevents water from entering and protects the occupants and equipment inside from the crushing forces of the ocean. The design includes features like rounded shapes to minimize stress concentrations and ensure structural integrity.

The concept of the submarine dates back to the 16th century, with early designs attributed to figures like Leonardo da Vinci; however, the first practical submarine was developed by Dutch inventor Cornelis Drebbel in the early 17th century. The helicopter's design evolved over time, with significant contributions from various inventors, but Igor Sikorsky is often credited with creating the first successful practical helicopter in the 1930s.

As a submarine moves through water, the magnitude of fluid friction, or drag, increases with speed due to the turbulent flow of water around its hull. At low speeds, the drag is primarily laminar and lower, but as the submarine accelerates, the flow becomes turbulent, leading to greater resistance. Additionally, factors such as the shape of the submarine and its surface roughness also influence the overall drag experienced. Thus, as the submarine increases its velocity, the fluid friction acting on it tends to increase significantly.

Submarines primarily use inertial navigation systems (INS) for underwater navigation, which allows them to determine their position based on initial location and movement over time without external references. They may also employ sonar systems to detect and map their surroundings and use GPS for surface navigation when they are above water. Additionally, some submarines can utilize celestial navigation when surfaced, relying on astronomical observations. Together, these methods ensure accurate and reliable navigation while submerged.

A submarine is designed primarily for underwater operations, allowing it to navigate and conduct various missions beneath the surface of the water. Its functions include military applications such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and attacking enemy ships or submarines, as well as scientific research, exploration, and underwater construction. Submarines can remain submerged for extended periods, making them valuable for stealth and strategic advantage. Additionally, they can support deep-sea exploration and environmental monitoring.

A submarine's viewing point is called a "periscope." The periscope allows crew members to see above the water's surface while the submarine remains submerged. It typically consists of a series of mirrors and lenses that provide a clear view of the surroundings, enabling navigation and observation without exposing the submarine.

The number of submarines Germany could maintain depends on various factors, including its naval budget, operational requirements, and international treaties. As of recent years, Germany has a fleet of modern submarines, primarily Type 212A and Type 214 submarines, with plans for future models. While there is no fixed limit, Germany's ability to sustain a larger fleet is influenced by technological, logistical, and strategic considerations. Ultimately, the exact number can fluctuate based on policy decisions and changing security dynamics.

Submarines revolutionized naval warfare and strategic military capabilities, allowing countries to conduct stealthy operations beneath the ocean's surface. Their development also enabled underwater exploration and scientific research, leading to advancements in marine biology and oceanography. Additionally, submarines have had a significant impact on global trade and commerce by securing maritime routes and influencing geopolitical dynamics. Overall, they transformed both military strategies and the understanding of the underwater world.

Submarines can stay on the bottom of the sea for extended periods, typically ranging from a few hours to several days, depending on their design and mission requirements. Factors such as battery life, air supply, and crew endurance play significant roles in determining how long they can remain submerged. Some submarines are equipped with systems to recycle air and manage resources, potentially prolonging their stay. However, prolonged stays on the seafloor can be limited by operational needs and safety considerations.

David Bushnell's submarine, known as the Turtle, was primarily made of wood, specifically oak and pine. It was covered with a layer of iron to provide additional strength and protection. The design was intended to be a one-man vessel for underwater attacks during the American Revolutionary War.

Submarines stay afloat by using a combination of buoyancy and ballast control. When they want to surface, they use compressed air to force water out of ballast tanks, making the submarine lighter and allowing it to float. To dive, submarines take in water into these tanks, increasing their weight and causing them to sink. By adjusting the amount of water in the ballast tanks, submarines can maintain their desired depth in the water.

As of now, the only African countries known to possess submarines are Egypt and Algeria. Egypt has several submarines, including German-made Type 209 submarines, while Algeria operates a fleet of Russian-made Kilo-class submarines. These countries have invested in submarine capabilities to enhance their naval power and security. Other African nations do not have operational submarines at this time.

World War II submarines typically had operational dive depths ranging from about 200 to 400 feet (60 to 120 meters), depending on the class and design. For example, German U-boats could generally dive to around 750 feet (230 meters), while American submarines had similar capabilities. However, actual maximum depths could vary, and while submarines were designed for specific operational depths, they could be damaged or crushed if they exceeded those limits significantly.

Submarines can pose several negative aspects, including significant environmental concerns, such as potential oil spills and disturbances to marine ecosystems. They also represent a substantial financial investment for nations, with high costs for construction, maintenance, and operation. Additionally, submarines can contribute to geopolitical tensions, as their stealth capabilities may escalate arms races and provoke fears of military aggression. Finally, the potential for accidents or malfunctions can lead to catastrophic loss of life and environmental damage.

The Confederate submarine from South Carolina was called the H.L. Hunley. It was the first combat submarine to successfully sink an enemy warship, achieving this feat in 1864 when it attacked the USS Housatonic. The Hunley was a hand-powered vessel and is notable for its innovative design, though it ultimately sank during its return journey after the attack.

Yes, submarines are real vessels designed for underwater operations. They are used by navies around the world for various purposes, including military defense, research, and exploration. Submarines can operate at great depths and are equipped with advanced technology for navigation, communication, and combat.

An access hatch on a submarine functions as a watertight door that provides entry and exit to various compartments while maintaining the vessel's integrity under pressure. It typically features a locking mechanism that ensures a secure seal when closed, preventing water ingress. The hatch can be operated manually or mechanically, often utilizing hydraulic systems, and may include safety interlocks to prevent opening while the submarine is submerged or under high pressure. The design is crucial for ensuring safe access for personnel and equipment while maintaining the submarine's operational capabilities.

SONAR, or Sound Navigation and Ranging, works in submarines by emitting sound waves into the water and listening for their echoes. When the sound waves hit an object, such as another submarine or the seafloor, they bounce back to the submarine's sonar system. By measuring the time it takes for the echoes to return, the submarine can determine the distance and size of the object. This technology enables submarines to navigate, communicate, and detect other vessels or underwater terrain even in complete darkness.