Chapter 14 - Underwater Acoustic Measurements and Their Applications

Abstract

This chapter is a collection of brief articles on topics in underwater acoustics. It starts with an overview of the complexity of the acoustic signals resulting from installation and operation of renewable energy systems and the efforts required to measure and interpret those signals. This is followed by a discussion of the United Nations' Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization's Hydro-acoustic sites in strategic locations in the world's oceans and their expertise in understanding low-frequency acoustic noise and the opportunity for researchers to take advantage of continuous recording that in many cases are more than a decade of time. The Characterization of Noise from Ships is both a classic and a modern view of the features of radiated energy from naval vessels. Underwater Soundscapes is a new look at understanding and interpreting noise fields. It is an especially valuable methodology for separating the myriad of oceanic noise sources. Underwater Acoustic Communications provides an introduction to the issues in that field. Underwater Archaeology is an introduction to a fascinating science that benefits greatly from the ability of high-frequency acoustic energy to image in a competitive way with visual means, but over useful ranges, the artifacts of our forebears. Applications of Underwater Acoustics in Polar Environments is very timely, given the renewed interest in these regions due to accessibility caused by global warming. Tank Experiments provides a modern review of ongoing facilities and efforts for cost-effective alternatives to at-sea experiments. Acoustic Positioning at Sea provides an overview of the forcing functions in and on the sea that make the exact position determination a daunting task. Ocean Observing Systems and Ocean Observatories, Oceanographers and Acousticians provides a complete summary of ongoing efforts and a perspective on the long and fruitful relationship between the scientists of both disciplines. Applications of Underwater Acoustics to Military Purposes is a complete, and brief, review of its use in various aspects of Naval Warfare.