Why Can't Car Doors Open Underwater?
1 Answers
Because the water pressure is too high. There is air inside the car cabin, and the pressure difference between the inside and outside causes the water to exert a force of up to 150 kilograms on the door, making it impossible to open. When the car cabin is completely filled with water, the pressure difference balances out, and the door can then be opened as easily as it would be in air. When a car is submerged in 1 meter of water, there is approximately one ton of water pressing against the door. Here are some relevant points: 1. Stay Calm: If the door isn’t opened immediately, as more water enters the car, the electrical systems may fail, making it impossible to open the doors or windows. It’s crucial to stay calm and avoid panic. Due to the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the car, opening the door from inside becomes extremely difficult. 2. Use a Safety Hammer: In such situations, use a sharp object inside the car to break the window and escape. A safety hammer is ideal for this purpose. When using a safety hammer, aim for the window that is still above water—usually a side or rear window. Strike the edges or corners of the window glass, not the center. 3. Use a Sturdy Metal Rod: Besides a safety hammer, the two slender, sturdy metal rods from a car headrest can also be used to break the window. A fire extinguisher can also shatter the window, but due to the internal pressure, it may cause secondary injuries and is generally not recommended.
