Deutsch: Wasser / Español: Agua / Português: Água / Français: Eau / Italiano: Acqua /
In the maritime context, "water" generally refers to the bodies of water that ships and boats travel on, as well as the water that is necessary for the operation of those vessels.
Description
In the maritime context, water is an essential element that can either be a source of life or a dangerous force to reckon with. It covers over 70% of the Earth's surface, providing vital routes for transportation and trade. Ships navigate through vast oceans, rivers, and seas, relying on water for their buoyancy and propulsion. Water plays a crucial role in supporting marine ecosystems, serving as a habitat for various species of marine life. It also influences weather patterns and climate, with the oceans absorbing and releasing heat to regulate temperatures.
The properties of water, such as its density, viscosity, and salinity, impact maritime operations and the behavior of vessels at sea. Mariners must understand these properties to navigate safely and efficiently. Water poses risks to maritime activities, including storms, rough seas, and icebergs, which can endanger ships and their crews. Proper understanding and respect for water are essential for the success and safety of maritime operations.
Well-Known Examples
Here are some examples of how "water" is used in the maritime context:
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Seawater: This is the saltwater found in oceans, seas, and other bodies of saltwater. It is often used as ballast to stabilize ships, and it can also be used for firefighting and cooling.
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Freshwater: This is water that does not contain salt, such as the water found in lakes, rivers, and some underground sources. Freshwater is used for drinking, cooking, and other purposes on ships.
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Ballast water: This is water that is taken on board a ship to provide stability. Ballast water is typically pumped in and out of the ship as it travels to maintain its balance.
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Bilge water: This is water that collects in the lowest part of a ship's hull, known as the bilge. It can contain oil, fuel, and other pollutants, and must be pumped out regularly to prevent pollution.
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Greywater: This is wastewater from sinks, showers, and other sources that is not contaminated with sewage. It can be discharged into the sea, but must be treated to remove any harmful substances.
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Blackwater: This is wastewater from toilets and other sources that is contaminated with sewage. It must be treated and discharged in a way that minimizes its impact on the environment.
Treatment and Risks
- Water treatments in the maritime context include desalination processes to provide fresh water for drinking and sanitation onboard ships.
- Risks associated with water in the maritime context include the danger of shipwrecks due to rough seas or collisions with icebergs.
- Contamination of water sources from oil spills or other pollutants can harm marine life and ecosystems.
- Mariners must also be aware of the risk of dehydration and waterborne illnesses due to limited fresh water availability on long voyages.
Similar Terms
Some similar terms to "water" in the maritime context include:
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Ocean: This refers to the vast bodies of saltwater that cover most of the Earth's surface.
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Sea: This refers to a smaller body of saltwater that is connected to an ocean, often bordered by land.
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River: This refers to a large, flowing body of freshwater that usually empties into an ocean or another body of water.
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Lake: This refers to a large body of freshwater surrounded by land.
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Harbor: This refers to a sheltered area of water near the shore where ships can dock and load or unload cargo.
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Channel: This refers to a narrow waterway that connects two larger bodies of water, often used by ships for navigation.
Weblinks
- quality-database.eu: 'Water' in the glossary of the quality-database.eu
- industrie-lexikon.de: 'Wasser' in the industrie-lexikon.de (German)
- umweltdatenbank.de: 'Wasser' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)
- fitness-and-health-glossary.com: 'Water' in the fitness-and-health-glossary.com
- bremen-huchting.de: 'Wasser' in the bremen-huchting.de (German)
- medizin-und-kosmetik.de: 'Wasser' im Lexikon von medizin-und-kosmetik.de (German)
- allerwelt-lexikon.de: 'Wasser' in the allerwelt-lexikon.de (German)
- space-glossary.com: 'Water' in the space-glossary.com
- glorious-food-glossary.com: 'Water' in the glorious-food-glossary.com
- environment-database.eu: 'Water' in the glossary of the environment-database.eu
Articles with 'Water' in the title
- Saltwater: Saltwater in the maritime context refers to the water from seas and oceans that has a high concentration of dissolved salts, primarily sodium chloride (NaCl)
Summary
Water in the maritime context is a vital element that sustains life, supports marine ecosystems, and influences weather patterns. It plays a crucial role in maritime operations, providing buoyancy and propulsion for ships. However, water also poses risks such as storms, rough seas, and icebergs, which can endanger vessels and crews. Understanding the properties of water and implementing proper treatments are essential for the success and safety of maritime activities.
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