Discussion of sea water sound-speed determinations

Abstract

Available data on the speed of sound in sea water are examined to arrive at a basis for deriving simple equations suitable for most ocean areas. Extant laboratory data are compared. In situ measurements aboard deep submergence vehicles are presented, and convergence zone ranges discussed. Del Grosso and Mader [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 52, 961–974 (1972)] equations appear superior, after numerous intercomparisons, to serve as a foundation for generating simple sound-speed equations.