Acoustic Implications of a New Model
Abstract
We attempt to show that the use of stochastic inverse methods allows us to precisely test proposed models of oceanic dynamical structure. It is the integrative property of the propagating acoustic wave that enables us to 'view' ocean dynamics on scales that would be impossible with traditional ocean instrumentation. Unfortunately, because there has been a lack of propagation experiments conducted where the ocean dynamics are well understood, we are unable to fully demonstrate the use of the concepts we present. Additional investigations are required. Theoretical and numerical studies of acoustics in numerical oceans can provide new information on the scales of ocean dynamics that are important for sound propagation. In turn, this information will tell us how thoroughly we need to model ocean variability in order to predict propagation characteristics. We show that the important scales of ocean variance are much larger than the acoustic wavelength, when the ranges correspond to standard range/frequency combinations. Finally, we present some ideas for future work using acoustics to verify a 'new model,' and discuss the temporal and spatial scales for a possible experiment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA276202
Entities
People
- Stephen Reynolds
- Terry Ewart
Organizations
- University of Washington