Underwater Pressure

Most recent answer: 01/26/2008

Q:
Hello I am trying to study and understand physics. Can I please ask a question. My question is: in an upside down bowl submerged underwater with traped atmospheric pressure air inside will the airpressure increase if you lower the big bowl to a much lower depth, please respond thank you and have a nice day.
- alvir baldonasa (age 37)
long beach ca usa
A:
Yes. Think of the surface between the trapped air and the water. the presure had better be equal on both sides, otherwise the surface will move one way or the other. The water pressure goes up as the bowl goes deeper, so the air pressure will too. The trapped bubble will compress.

Mike W.

(published on 01/26/2008)