Deep Scattering Layers in the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

The deep scattering layer (DSL) in the Gulf of Mexico has been studied, over a period of three years, utilizing a precision depth recorder operating at 12 kHz. The DSL appears to be divided into four main daytime layers. The west-central Gulf shows little deep layering. No definite correlation of DSL and physical parameters was arrived at. The DSL was not found to be seasonally variable. There were some indications that the DSL shoals to the north. Maximum rates of evening ascent of 3.4 fm/min (6.2 m/min) and morning descent of 5.9 fm/min (10.8 m/min) were determined. The length of time for ascent (2 hr) and descent 3 1/2 hr) are arrived at. Examples of evening ascent, morning descent and the dawn rise are presented. Response of the DSL to a total solar eclipse and cloud cover are discussed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 1971
Accession Number
AD0729256

Entities

People

  • Jerald W. Caruthers
  • Ronald C. Thompson
  • Thomas J. Bright

Organizations

  • Texas A&M University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Ground and Sea Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aquatic Organisms
  • Cloud Cover
  • Clouds
  • Continental Slopes
  • Deep Scattering Layers
  • Eclipses
  • Frequency
  • Magnetic Tape
  • New England
  • Oceanography
  • Photographs
  • Recording Systems
  • Resonant Frequency
  • Scattering
  • Solar Eclipses
  • Temperature Gradients
  • Topography

Readers

  • Marine Mammal Biology
  • Metallurgy
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies