õhukivide

õhukivide is an Estonian term that translates to "air stones" or "bubble stones" in English. These are porous, inert materials, typically made from ceramic, silicon carbide, or other similar compounds, that are used in aquatic environments to produce fine bubbles.

The primary function of an õhukivide is to diffuse air or oxygen into water. When connected to an air pump via tubing, air is forced through the tiny pores of the stone, creating a stream of small bubbles. This process is commonly used in aquariums, ponds, and other aquatic setups.

The fine bubbles produced by õhukivide serve several purposes. They increase the surface area of the water, which facilitates better gas exchange, allowing for more oxygen to dissolve into the water and carbon dioxide to escape. This is crucial for the health of fish and other aquatic life that require dissolved oxygen to breathe. Additionally, the movement of bubbles can help to circulate water, preventing stagnant areas and distributing oxygen and nutrients more evenly throughout the tank or pond. Some õhukivide are also used for decorative purposes, adding visual interest to an aquarium with their bubbling effect. The size and density of the pores in the õhukivide determine the size and quantity of the bubbles produced.