Characterization of the Bottom Sediment Velocity-Depth Relationship for the Somali Basin and the Arabian Sea
Abstract
In the study and modeling of sound propagation of the ocean bottom, one of the most important parameters is the velocity of sound versus depth in the bottom. To provide this parameter in the Somali Basin and the Arabian Sea, each area was sampled with velocity-depth measurements by the wide-angle bottom reflection method. Sediment surface sound velocity and bottom water sound velocity were collected as supporting data. From these data, instantaneous velocity functions and velocity-depth functions were derived using the method of Houtz et al. (1968, 1970) and Bachman and Hamilton (1980). Data from groups of stations were used to derive a representative function for an area or line of stations. Based on the results of the analysis, a minimum number of representative functions were derived for the larger area. In the Somali Basin, a maximum of three functions adequately characterizes the relationship for the area. In the Arabian Sea, due to the physiography, four functions are needed to characterize the relationship throughout the area. In the course of the work, a close relationship of sediment surface velocity and depth was noted. This was verified by plotting the sediment surface sound velocity versus depth and fitting these data with a least-squares line. A correlation coefficient was used to verify the relationship.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA255207
Entities
People
- Nelson J. Letourneau
Organizations
- Naval Oceanographic Office