High frequency acoustic waves underwater

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SUMMARY

High frequency acoustic waves, specifically those above 1 kHz, experience significant absorption underwater due to interactions with small particles and bubbles present in natural water. These particles cause the sound waves to travel at different velocities, leading to phase cancellation effects that diminish the wave's strength. In contrast, longer wavelengths are less affected as they do not align closely with the sizes of these impurities. Additional factors influencing absorption include heat, water currents, depth, and chemical composition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acoustic wave propagation
  • Knowledge of sound frequency ranges
  • Familiarity with the effects of water impurities on sound
  • Basic principles of wave interference
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  • Research the effects of water impurities on acoustic wave absorption
  • Explore the relationship between sound frequency and wave propagation in different mediums
  • Study the impact of temperature and depth on underwater acoustics
  • Learn about wave interference and phase cancellation in acoustics
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Marine scientists, acoustic engineers, and researchers studying underwater sound propagation and its environmental impacts.

rusty009
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Hi,

was just wondering if anyone could help me out with this query, I'm just curious to know why high frequency acoustic waves are greatly absorbed underwater? Thanks in advance.
 
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I'm assuming you are mentioning sound of higher frequency than 1 Khz. Almost all water in nature has small particles or bubbles in it, and sound travels through those particles at different velocities than the water around it. When sound with such short wavelengths travel through those particles, it becomes slightly out of phase with the surrounding wave, partially cancelling it out. Do this many times, and the wave is greatly reduced. Longer wavelengths are not affected as much, since they are not as close to the particle/bubble/impurity sizes one finds in water. There are also factors such as heat, currents, depth, and chemistry. I hope your question was answered.
 

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