Influence of Mesoscale Vortex on Underwater Low-Frequency Sound Propagation

Abstract

To discuss the effect of an ocean mesoscale vortex on underwater low-frequency sound propagation, a theoretical model of a sound field under the action of an ocean mesoscale vortex was established based on acoustic wave theory and ray theory, using the finite element method. The influences of vortex properties and vortex intensity on the characteristics of sound propagation are discussed. The simulation results indicate that, in a cold vortex, the acoustic convergence zone moves toward the sound source, the span of the convergence zone decreases, and the convergence gain increases. Alternatively, for a warm vortex, the convergence zone moves away from the sound source, the span of the convergence zone increases, the sound rays diffuse, and the convergence gain decreases; the greater the vortex intensity, the greater is the effect on the motion and gain of the convergence region.