Verne was known for his precise and futuristic descriptions of technology, he created novels based on the advanced scientific knowledge of his time. His depiction of underwater mining on a Mysterious island was no exception. The novel, published in 1874, tells the story of a group of castaways who struggle to survive on a mysterious island and eventually discover rich deposits of gold and diamonds deep under water.
To extract precious minerals, the castaways build a diving bell and a system of air pumps and hoses that allow them to descend to the bottom of the ocean and extract gold and diamonds from rocks. This process was based on real technologies of that time, which were just beginning to make underwater mining possible. In addition, the heroes of the novel build bridges, conduct canals, erect dams, drain swamps, extract minerals, melt metals, build cars, install an electric telegraph. Also, Cyrus Smith's "chemical factory" produces acids and alkalis, glycerin, stearin, soap, candles, gunpowder, pyroxylin, window panes and glassware.
Verne's description of the process was detailed and accurate and included calculations of pressure, volume and other technical aspects of underwater mining. He also researched the economic and social consequences of the discovery of huge mineral reserves and the ethical dilemmas that arise when working with such valuable resources.
In general, Verne's description of underwater mining on a Mysterious island was ahead of its time and helped popularize this concept among both readers and scientists. Today, underwater mining is an established industry and is used to extract various minerals and resources from the ocean depths.
Alexandrova Anastasia