Effect of Subsurface Mediterranean Water Eddies on Sound Propagation Using ROMS Output and the Bellhop Model

Ocean processes can locally modify the upper ocean density structure, leading to an attenuation or a deflection of sound signals. Among these phenomena, eddies cause significant changes in acoustic properties ocean; this suggests possible characterization via acoustics. Here, we investigate propagation signals Northeastern Atlantic presence Mediterranean Water (Meddies). Relying on high-resolution simulation which Meddies were identified and using Bellhop model, investigated differences absence Meddies. create channels travel with large energy. The transmission loss decreases 80 90 dB; more reach synthetic receivers. Outside channels, are deflected from their normal paths. Using receivers at different locations, impact Meddies, same Meddy stages its life, characterized terms angular distributions times arrivals energy reception. Determining influence wave characteristics reception is first step inverting received retrieving hydrological characteristics.