Simulating the effect of mesoscale eddies on sound wave propagation in the Persian Gulf and Northern Oman Sea

To develop and build advanced marine systems in underwater environments, it is essential to thoroughly analyze how sound waves travel and how oceanic physical phenomena impact sound propagation. One such phenomenon, called mesoscale eddies, can be found in various bodies of water like the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. These eddies are particularly noticeable during the summer months. To study sound propagation in mesoscale eddies, this research utilized a Range-dependent Acoustic Model (RAM). This model provides an accurate solution for marine acoustic problems when given the correct inputs. The aim of this article is to identify the sound propagation patterns in different areas of the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea to assist engineers in various applications. In other words, the results of this article help designers locate their sound sources and receivers based on the acoustic pressure profile and sound transmission loss in areas with different depths in the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea. The findings revealed that the acoustic pressure is lowest in areas where a salty core eddy exists. This means that sound cannot penetrate areas with high density at the center of these eddies. Instead, the sound is redirected towards areas with the slowest speed. Furthermore, the acoustic RAM output shows a reversal in the acoustic pressure profile and transmission loss profile. As a result, the results of the acoustic model indicate that the sound did not effectively penetrate the eddy center or other deep areas.