What would the effect of a massive hull breach on an O'Neil Cylinder have on those on the inside of it?

What would happen to occupants of an O'Neal Cylinder if it suffered a massive hull breach on one of its ends i.e. the base of the cylinder? Specifically, those nearer to the breach.

If the breach occurred catastrophically (explosion or some kind of hull failure) what would those near it experience? Say the failure occurs at "ground level" of the station and is a hundred or so meters across and a few dozens high.

• Would there be a real legitimate risk of being violently sucked out as so often inaccurately depicted in movies?

• In the violent outrush of air how severe would the pressure drop be?

• Would that outrush of air reach supersonic velocities?

• What would happen to a lake or ocean located nearby?

• What other effects, if any, can be expected?

I know due to the massive size of the station it would likely take a long time to vent atmosphere through a breach even a hundred meters across. For the majority of the population, there would be plenty of time to get to safety or a repair mechanism to close the breach. I'm only concerned with those unfortunate souls near by.

Edit: Links to resources that can help me find the answers are perfectly acceptable.

posted almost 8 years ago

Joe Kissling‭

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