1 BAR is equivalent to approximately 10 meters (33 feet) of depth in water.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Understanding BAR and Pressure
- BAR: A unit of pressure. 1 BAR is roughly equivalent to the atmospheric pressure at sea level.
- Pressure Underwater: As you descend underwater, the pressure increases. This is due to the weight of the water above you.
The Relationship Between Depth and Pressure
For every 10 meters (33 feet) you descend in water, the pressure increases by approximately 1 BAR. This is in addition to the 1 BAR of atmospheric pressure already present at the surface. Therefore, at 10 meters deep, the total pressure is approximately 2 BAR (1 BAR from the atmosphere + 1 BAR from the water). At 20 meters deep, it's 3 BAR, and so on.
Considerations for Saltwater vs. Freshwater
The exact depth corresponding to 1 BAR can vary slightly between saltwater and freshwater due to differences in density. Saltwater is denser than freshwater, so the pressure increases slightly faster in saltwater.
- Freshwater: Approximately 10 meters for 1 BAR.
- Saltwater: Approximately 10.06 meters for 1 BAR.
However, for practical purposes, the 10-meter (33-foot) rule of thumb is generally sufficient.
Practical Implications
Understanding the relationship between depth and pressure is crucial for activities like scuba diving, where pressure changes can have significant physiological effects. Divers must be aware of these changes to avoid conditions like decompression sickness ("the bends").
