Ultrasound vs Normal Waves for Sea Depth Measurement: Why Ultrasound is Superior

In summary, ultrasound is more effective than normal waves for determining the depth of the sea due to its smaller wavelength, which allows for more concentrated waves on the sea bed. Additionally, the amplitude of an ultrasound wave decreases less rapidly and it can travel further in water, resulting in more accurate and responsive results compared to normal waves.
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jsmith613
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Homework Statement


Waves with small wavelengths diffract less than those with longer wavelengths. Use this information to suggest why ultrasound is much better than ordinary waves for finding the depth of the sea [3 marks]

Homework Equations


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The Attempt at a Solution


Ultrasound has a smaller wavelength than normal waves - hence wave is more concentrated on sea bed.

4. Problems

The mark scheme includes the following two, extra, factors
- amplitude decreases rapidly
- range limited / cannot travel far.

I presume that the last to factors refer to ordinary wavesIs this next sentences correct:
"the amplitude (energy) of an ultrasound wave decreases less rapidly than that of a normal wave - hence results will be more accurate and more responsive. Furthermore, ultrasound can travel further in water than normal waves"
 
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Is this stuff correct?
 

Related to Ultrasound vs Normal Waves for Sea Depth Measurement: Why Ultrasound is Superior

1. What is the difference between ultrasound and normal waves?

Ultrasound waves are high-frequency sound waves that have a frequency above the range of human hearing, typically above 20,000 Hz. Normal waves, on the other hand, refer to any type of wave that is within the audible range of human hearing.

2. How do ultrasound waves measure sea depth?

Ultrasound waves are emitted from a transducer and travel through the water until they reach the seabed. When they bounce off the seabed, the time taken for the waves to return to the transducer is measured. This time is then used to calculate the depth of the sea.

3. Why is ultrasound considered superior for sea depth measurement?

Ultrasound waves have a shorter wavelength compared to normal waves, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the water. This makes them more accurate for measuring sea depth, especially in deeper waters where normal waves may not reach the seabed.

4. Are there any limitations to using ultrasound for sea depth measurement?

Yes, ultrasound waves can be affected by various factors such as water temperature, salinity, and pressure, which can affect their speed and accuracy. Additionally, ultrasound waves can also be blocked by objects in the water, making it difficult to accurately measure sea depth in certain areas.

5. Are there any other advantages of using ultrasound for sea depth measurement?

Aside from being more accurate, ultrasound waves also have a faster speed compared to normal waves, allowing for quicker and more efficient measurements. They also do not rely on external sources such as satellites, making them a more reliable option for sea depth measurement.

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