What is the formula to determine depth using sound wave?

The formula to determine depth using sound waves is expressed as D = c•Δt, where D represents the depth, c is the speed of sound in water, and Δt is the time taken for the sound wave to travel to the bottom and back to the surface.

This formula is based on the principle that sound travels at a constant speed in the water, and the time it takes for the sound wave to return to the surface can be measured. By multiplying the speed of sound (c) by the time taken (Δt), you can calculate the total distance traveled by the sound wave. However, since this distance represents a round trip from the surface to the seabed and back again, the actual depth of the water is obtained by dividing this distance by two.

Thus, the formula effectively gives a means to accurately assess the depth of underwater features, which is essential in hydrographic surveying for navigation, construction, and environmental monitoring.