[Publius6961]

Let's see... assuming the scenario as presented is true (which I totally reject) the rushing oil will erode the pipe walls and "eventually" after gazillions of gallons of oil are spilled, and the oil reservoir "emptied," then the sea water will rush in, convert to steam and blow half the gulf to kingdom come.

This fellow is a total science ignoramus, and never heard of equilibrium. When the internal pressure equals the sea bottom pressure would not the flow stop in either direction?

Have I forgotten all of my high school and college physics?

[Robert A Cook PE]

Yes, backpressure from the ocean’s weight reduces flow.

Reservoir pressure from below (about 25,000 psi at the reservoir, about 15,000 psi at the sediment/ocean bottom/wellhead) is enough to keep the oil flowing.

Lots of new food for bacteria to eat. 8<)

They are drilling relief wells to relieve off the pressure from the oil and natural gas under there - that’s probably the most effective solution, near term and long range.