Submarines are powered by diesel-electric or nuclear power plants. Diesel-electric submarines use diesel engines to generate electricity, which powers the submarine's electric motors. Nuclear submarines use nuclear reactors to generate steam, which drives a turbine that generates electricity. The electric motors on both types of submarines drive the propeller, which pushes the submarine through the water.

Diving and Surfacing

Submarines use ballast tanks to dive and surface. Ballast tanks are large compartments that can be filled with water or air. When the ballast tanks are filled with water, the submarine becomes heavier and sinks. When the ballast tanks are filled with air, the submarine becomes lighter and rises to the surface.

Control Surfaces

Submarines use control surfaces to maneuver underwater. Control surfaces are hinged flaps located on the hull of the submarine. By moving the control surfaces, the submarine can change its direction and depth.

Sonar

Submarines use sonar to detect objects in the water. Sonar works by sending out sound waves and listening for the echoes that bounce back off objects. The submarine can use the echoes to determine the location and size of objects in the water.

Periscope

Submarines use a periscope to see above the surface of the water. The periscope is a tall, thin tube that extends above the hull of the submarine. The submarine can raise and lower the periscope to get a view of the surface.

Torpedoes

Submarines are armed with torpedoes. Torpedoes are self-propelled underwater missiles that can be launched from the submarine's torpedo tubes. Torpedoes are used to attack ships and other submarines.

Stealth

Submarines are designed to be stealthy. They are made of materials that absorb sound waves and radar signals. Submarines also operate at low speeds to reduce noise.

Navigation

Submarines use a variety of navigation systems to find their way underwater. These systems include inertial navigation systems, GPS, and sonar.

Life Support

Submarines have a variety of life support systems to keep the crew alive. These systems include air purifiers, carbon dioxide scrubbers, and oxygen generators.

Escape

Submarines have a variety of escape hatches and systems to allow the crew to escape in an emergency. These systems include escape hatches, diving bells, and rescue chambers.