Here's Why the Underwater Remains of RMS Titanic are Becoming Smaller Everyday

The Titanic, a British passenger liner, sank on its maiden voyage, becoming one of the most famous maritime disasters. Discovered in 1985, the wreck is rapidly deteriorating due to microbial activity, particularly iron-eating bacteria like Halimonas Titanic A. These microbes, along with mechanical and galvanic corrosion, are causing the ship to decay. Despite its physical disappearance, the Titanic remains a significant historical symbol.

What was the primary goal of the expedition that discovered the Titanic wreck?

• To find the Titanic

• To locate two sunken American submarines

• To explore the North Atlantic Sea

• To study oceanic microbes

What is the main reason microbes are able to survive at the bottom of the ocean?

• They thrive in high salt concentrations

• They can withstand low temperatures

• They feed on organic matter

• They are resistant to high pressure

What is a rusticle?

• A type of mollusk

• A structure where iron is oxidized

• A type of fungus

• A layer of biofilm

How does galvanic corrosion affect the Titanic?

• It slows down the rusting process

• It accelerates the rusting of iron

• It causes electrons to flow from brass to iron

• It protects the ship from corrosion

What is the potential positive use of iron-eating microbes?

• To clean oil spills

• To recycle metal from wrecks

• To desalinate seawater

• To build new ships