When Soul Sand is placed underwater, it creates a unique effect: it generates an upward bubble column that rapidly pushes anything within the water above it upwards. This effect was introduced in version 1.13 of the game.
Understanding the Soul Sand Water Effect
According to the reference, since version 1.13, Soul Sand and Magma Blocks gained special properties in water. When water is placed on top of Soul Sand, it causes anything in the water above the Soul Sand block to be shot up at rapid speed.
This powerful upward force affects various entities within the water, including:
- Items: Dropped items are quickly propelled upwards.
- Players: Players standing in the water column are rapidly lifted towards the surface.
- Mobs: Creatures in the water will also be pushed upwards.
This creates a strong upward current or "bubble elevator" effect.
Contrast with Magma Blocks
The reference also notes that Magma Blocks work in the opposite way. When water is placed on top of a Magma Block, they create a downward pulling effect, drawing anything in the water above it downwards rapidly.
Practical Applications
The upward bubble column created by Soul Sand in water has many uses in the game, such as:
- Vertical transportation: Building fast bubble elevators for players and mobs.
- Item sorting/transport: Creating vertical item transport systems.
- Mob grinders: Pushing mobs up for collection or processing.
Below is a simple comparison table based on the reference:
| Block | Water Effect | Direction | Entities Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soul Sand | Bubble Column | Upward | Items, Players, Mobs |
| Magma Block | Pulling Current | Downward | Anything in the water |
This effect is a fundamental mechanic introduced in the 1.13 "Update Aquatic," significantly changing how underwater structures and transportation can be designed.
