High frequency acoustic waves underwater

In summary, high frequency acoustic waves are greatly absorbed underwater due to the presence of small particles or bubbles in the water, which causes the sound waves to become out of phase and partially cancel each other out. Other factors such as heat, currents, depth, and chemistry also contribute to this absorption.
  • #1
rusty009
69
0
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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  • #2
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.
 

Related to High frequency acoustic waves underwater

1. What are high frequency acoustic waves underwater?

High frequency acoustic waves underwater are sound waves with a frequency above 20,000 Hz that travel through water. They are used for various purposes such as communication, navigation, and mapping.

2. How are high frequency acoustic waves generated underwater?

High frequency acoustic waves are generated underwater through the use of specialized equipment such as underwater speakers or sonar devices. They can also be produced naturally by marine animals such as dolphins and whales.

3. What are the applications of high frequency acoustic waves underwater?

High frequency acoustic waves have many applications in underwater environments. They are used for underwater communication, navigation, and mapping of the ocean floor. They are also used in the study of marine life and the detection of underwater objects.

4. How do high frequency acoustic waves travel underwater?

High frequency acoustic waves travel through water by compressing and expanding the water molecules as they propagate. They can travel long distances underwater due to the high density of water, but their speed and direction can be affected by factors such as temperature, salinity, and pressure.

5. What are the potential impacts of high frequency acoustic waves on marine life?

The use of high frequency acoustic waves underwater can have potential impacts on marine life. It can disrupt the communication and behavior of marine animals, and in some cases, can cause physical harm. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider and regulate the use of high frequency acoustic waves in underwater environments.

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