A review of low-frequency seafloor reverberation measurements.

Abstract

Measurements of reverberation from the seafloor are of use in both theoretical models of scattering as well as for developing an empirical basis for systems development and operation. It is useful to review, therefore, the experimental results that are used for these purposes. The experiments that are most often cited span about the past 30 years. The most common techniques utilize omnidirectional sources and receivers near the sea surface or near the seafloor. Recently, results have been reported that utilize directional arrays. Both broadband and narrow-band sources have been used. The results of several experiments are examined and compared. The backscattering strengths as a function of grazing angle are compared, based on frequency and geological similarity (wherever possible). The search for the elusive ‘‘Lamberts law’’ will be discussed. Frequencies up to about 3 kHz are considered.