The approximate weight of a whale can be determined without direct weighing by roughly calculating the volume of its body and multiplying that value by the average density. However, if an exact weight is required, there are several methods available.
If a cetacean is kept in captivity, the rise in water level in the pool where it is released can be recorded. By multiplying the obtained value by the area of the pool, we get the volume in cubic meters, which in the case of water is almost equal to the number of tons.
However, as is known, cases of strandings with tragic consequences often occur among cetaceans. This is undoubtedly a sad fact, but a dead carcass can be weighed at any time. Special spring scales are used for this, which are installed on a winch, as well as platforms for weighing large cargo, such as trucks.
By the way, a tanker truck that transports small whales for various aquariums can also drive onto such a platform. By weighing the loaded truck and then releasing the whale into the pool, a second weighing can be conducted. Then it’s just simple arithmetic.
Leave a comment