How Do Scientists Use Sound Waves to Detect Underwater Earthquakes?

Scientists have developed a technique known as underwater acoustics, which utilizes sound waves to detect and analyze seismic activity beneath the ocean's surface. This method is based on the principle that sound travels faster and more efficiently in water than in air, allowing researchers to monitor vast areas of the ocean for seismic events. By deploying a network of underwater microphones, or hydrophones, researchers can pick up the low-frequency sounds generated by earthquakes, even those that occur far below the seabed. This technology not only helps in early earthquake detection but also contributes to our understanding of tectonic plate movements and the dynamics of underwater volcanic activity, ultimately improving safety measures for coastal communities.