How was sound speed corrected in historical contexts?

The use of tables of mean sound velocity-depth profiles in historical contexts for sound speed correction is significant because these tables were developed from extensive field measurements and empirical data collected over the years. They provide a practical reference that accounts for the variations in sound speed in water due to factors such as temperature, salinity, and pressure with depth.

In hydrographic surveying, accurately determining sound speed is crucial because it directly affects the precision of depth measurements. The tables compile average sound speed values at varying depths and environmental conditions, which surveyors could apply to correct their sonar readings effectively.

While other methods of correcting sound speed exist, relying on these established tables offered a consistent and standardized approach, especially when there was limited access to real-time data or advanced computational tools. This methodology allowed surveyors to provide reasonably accurate depth measurements that facilitated navigation, charting, and resource management in maritime operations.