Study examines role of acoustic-gravity waves as ocean transport, early warning of tsunamis
Tuesday, February 3, 2015 - 06:30
in Earth & Climate
Acoustic-gravity waves—a special type of sound wave that can cut through the deep ocean at the speed of sound—can be generated by underwater earthquakes, explosions, and landslides, as well as by surface waves and meteorites. A single one of these waves can stretch tens or hundreds of kilometers, and travel at depths of hundreds or thousands of meters below the ocean surface, transferring energy from the upper surface to the seafloor, and across the oceans. Acoustic-gravity waves often precede a tsunami or rogue wave—either of which can be devastating.