The Dead Sea is a hypersaline lake situated at the lowest point on Earth, nestled between Jordan and Israel. Visitors experience a unique sensation of floating due to the water’s extreme chemical composition. For the average person, sinking below the surface is an almost impossible task. The answer to whether you can sink is generally no, as the science behind this powerful buoyancy prevents it.
The Physics Behind the Float
The key to the Dead Sea’s powerful lift is its extraordinarily high salt concentration, which directly impacts the water’s density. While typical ocean water contains about 3.5% salt, the Dead Sea boasts a salinity level of approximately 34%, making it nearly ten times saltier. This high concentration results in a water density of about 1,240 kilograms per cubic meter.
In contrast, the average density of the human body, including air in the lungs, is only around 985 kilograms per cubic meter. According to the principle of buoyancy, an object floats if it is less dense than the fluid it displaces. This significant density difference creates a powerful upward force, known as upthrust, that easily counteracts the downward pull of gravity. The body is pushed to the surface where it rests effortlessly.
The Difficulty of Submerging
Attempting to swim normally or dive is nearly impossible, as the buoyant force constantly pushes limbs and the torso upward. Trying to execute a breaststroke or freestyle often proves futile because the legs are unnaturally raised toward the surface, making forward motion difficult to achieve. Even strong swimmers struggle to maintain a balanced position that allows for typical movement.
Achieving full submersion requires a person to forcefully empty their lungs of air and use weights; even then, the body will fight to return to the surface. This difficulty in maneuvering creates the danger of accidentally flipping over. If a person rolls onto their stomach, the powerful buoyancy can make it very difficult to right themselves, potentially trapping the face in the water.
Safety Precautions
The extreme salt content introduces risks that require specific precautions. The hypersaline water can cause severe irritation and burning if it enters the eyes or mouth, so visitors must avoid splashing or putting their face near the surface.
It is advised not to shave any part of the body for at least 24 hours before entering the water, as the salt will aggressively sting small cuts or abrasions. Immersion time should also be limited to about 20 minutes to prevent skin irritation and minimize the risk of dehydration. If water is ingested, seeking immediate medical attention is necessary, as the high mineral concentration can be toxic.