If you were to drop a toaster or a live radio into the ocean, the likelihood of fish or marine life being electrocuted is relatively low, but there are a few factors to consider:
Electrical Conductivity: Seawater is a good conductor of electricity due to its high salt content. If a live electrical appliance, like a radio, were to be dropped into the ocean, there is a possibility that electricity could flow through the water, creating an electrified zone in the immediate vicinity of the device.
Dilution Effect: The electrical charge would dissipate rapidly as it spreads through the vast volume of seawater. The further away from the source, the weaker the electrical effect would be. By the time the charge travels a short distance, it would likely be too weak to cause harm to marine life.
Depth: The depth at which the appliance is dropped would also affect the potential impact. If it's close to the surface, marine life nearer to the source might be more at risk, but deeper-dwelling fish may not be affected at all.
Enclosure: Devices like toasters and radios are generally sealed, and their internal electrical components are well-insulated. If the device remains sealed and intact upon immersion, the likelihood of significant electrical leakage into the water is reduced.
Environmental Impact: While the risk of immediate electrocution may be low, the presence of discarded appliances in the ocean can still have negative environmental consequences. These items can be hazardous to marine life through physical entanglement or ingestion if they break apart over time.
It's essential to remember that disposing of electronic devices or any trash in the ocean is harmful to marine ecosystems and the environment as a whole. To protect marine life and preserve the oceans, it's crucial to recycle and properly dispose of electronic waste and other materials responsibly.