This module introduces students to the concept and function of underwater acoustics using inexpensive and commercially available sensor building materials. The activity gives students experience with ocean sensors, with information and materials including:
- Background on the history of echo sounding and the physics of underwater acoustics
- Step-by-step instructions for construction and use of a simplified echosounder using readily available and inexpensive electronic conponents
- Activity to explore the application of acoustics in ocean bathymetry and seafloor mapping by producing a map of acoustic soundings along a transect
- Data exploration and evaluation of student data to explore implications of sampling resolution and understand sources of error
The module was designed for an intermediate-level undergraduate oceanography course and is appropriate for introductory through advanced undergraduate-level oceanography courses across a variety of disciplines, as well as for high school physics, technology, or marine science students.
The complete activity guide, handout materials, and extension activities are published and available at Oceanography: https://doi.org/10.5670/oceanog.2020.305