A tank bubbler works by introducing air into the aquarium, which then rises to the surface as bubbles, creating water movement and surface agitation. Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Air Pump: The process begins with an air pump, which is located outside the fish tank. This pump's purpose is to draw in air from the surrounding environment and push it towards the aquarium.
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Airline Tubing: The air pump connects to the tank via airline tubing. This flexible, small-diameter tubing carries the compressed air from the pump to the bubbler inside the tank.
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Bubbler Device (Air Stone or Decoration): At the end of the airline tubing, inside the aquarium, is a bubbler device. This is often an air stone, which is a porous material designed to diffuse the air into many tiny bubbles. Decorative ornaments can also be used, with internal structures that allow air to escape in a bubbling fashion.
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Bubble Formation and Ascent: The compressed air exits the bubbler device as bubbles. These bubbles, being less dense than the surrounding water, rise to the surface.
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Surface Agitation and Water Movement: As the bubbles rise, they create water movement. When they reach the surface and pop, they cause surface agitation. This agitation is crucial for gas exchange, allowing carbon dioxide to escape and oxygen to dissolve into the water.
In summary: An air pump pushes air through airline tubing to a bubbler device (like an air stone) in the tank, creating bubbles that rise to the surface, causing water movement and surface agitation for better oxygenation.
