Reflection of a plane wave from a two-layered seafloor with non-parallel interface between the layers

Area of Science:

• Geophysics
• Acoustics
• Oceanography

Background:

• Seafloor acoustic reflection is crucial for geophysical surveys.
• Existing models often assume parallel layers, limiting accuracy for complex geology.
• The reflection coefficient quantifies acoustic energy returning from the seafloor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To extend the reflection coefficient concept to seafloors with non-parallel layers.
• To introduce and formulate the Coherent Reflection Coefficient (CRC).
• To develop a numerical tool for CRC calculations and analyze its impact on geophysical inversions.

Main Methods:

• Mathematical derivation of the Coherent Reflection Coefficient (CRC).
• Numerical implementation and code development for CRC calculations.
• Comparison of results for slanted versus parallel seafloor layers.

Main Results:

• The CRC formulation extends acoustic reflection analysis to non-parallel seafloor interfaces.
• Numerical simulations show substantial differences in reflection coefficients for slanted layers, even at small inclinations.
• A user-friendly toolbox facilitates CRC computation for realistic seafloor models.

Conclusions:

• Non-parallel seafloor layers significantly affect acoustic reflection coefficients.
• The CRC provides a more accurate model for complex seafloor geometries.
• This work enhances geophysical inversion schemes for improved seafloor parameter estimation.