Which acoustic phenomenon is primarily utilized in SONAR technology to measure the depth of sea beds and detect underwater hazards?

💡 Solution & Explanation

SONAR systems emit high-frequency ultrasonic sound waves through water and measure the time taken for the echo to return after reflecting off the seabed or obstacles, allowing precise distance calculations. Ultrasonic waves are used because they have high frequencies and short wavelengths, making them less prone to significant diffraction and attenuation underwater. Sound refraction and interference affect sound propagation paths but are not the primary measurement principles. Sound travels roughly four times faster in water than in air.