Bubble Column
minecraft:bubble_columnA bubble column is a non-solid, fluid-like block that forms a vertical current inside water, pushing entities upward or pulling them downward. It generates naturally above underwater magma blocks and can be created manually with soul sand.
Uses
- Vertical Transport — Placing soul sand under source water creates an upward bubble column, while a magma block underwater creates a downward whirlpool column — together they form fast underwater elevators.
Found In
- Underwater ocean ruins and aquifers — Whirlpool (downward) columns appear naturally where magma blocks generate underwater.
- Player-built water elevators — Soul sand placed beneath source water creates an upward column on demand.
FAQ
Can I mine or collect a bubble column?
No. It has no item form obtainable through normal survival play and produces no drops when its source block is removed.
How fast do bubble columns move entities?
Upward columns push entities at roughly 11 blocks per second in Java Edition, while downward whirlpool columns pull them at about 4.9 blocks per second.
Can pistons push bubble columns?
Not anymore. Bubble columns were briefly pushable by pistons in early snapshots but this was removed in 18w16a.
Is it safe for underwater mobs?
No. Most water-breathing mobs avoid bubble columns because they can suffocate while caught inside one.
Tags
- overworld
- non_solid