How Deep Did the Titanic Sink?
Quick Answer
After a collision with an iceberg irreparably damaged its hull, the RMS Titanic sank to a depth of 12,500 feet. The wreckage was found in 1985 by Dr. Robert D. Ballard, 370 miles south-southeast of Newfoundland.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
The Titanic was discovered with the help of a submersible named Argo. It had cameras attached to it, which recorded the ocean floor as it was towed along by a ship. Separated on the ocean floor by approximately a third of a mile, the wreck is in two main pieces, though only the bow of the ship is still recognizable. The Titanic continues to deteriorate because of the combined conditions of corroding seawater, ocean currents and metal-eating bacteria.
Construction of the Titanic began in March 1909, and it was built alongside its sister ship, the Olympic. The Titanic's maiden voyage was on April 10, 1912, however, a collision with an iceberg on April 14 caused the Titanic's hull to rupture below the waterline. Five of the Titanic's watertight compartments quickly flooded, causing the ship to sink bow first. The Titanic was unprepared for a disaster of this magnitude and only about half of the passengers were able to be evacuated in the lifeboats. Tragically, an estimated 1,490 to 1,635 people were killed when the Titanic sank.
Learn more about Modern EuropeRelated Questions
-
Q:
Where Was the Titanic's Destination?
A: The RMS Titanic was en route from Southampton, England to New York City in the United States when it struck an iceberg and sank on April 15, 1912. The sink... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Far Deep Did the Titanic Sink?
A: The Titanic sank 2.2 miles below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean, which is equivalent to 3.75 kilometers, or 12,600 feet. The Titanic broke in half befor... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Long Did It Take to Build the Titanic?
A: Built in Belfast Ireland, the Titanic took approximately 3 years to complete. Construction began in 1909, and the ship was completed in 1912, the same year... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Much Did It Cost to Ride on the Titanic?
A: The cost to ride on the Titanic varied depending on the type of ticket, but first-class tickets were $2,500 and third-class tickets were $40. In modern cur... Full Answer >Filed Under:
