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Turbulence Can Absorb or Boost Underwater Sound

· 14 April 2026 · 3 sources

A new study by Kai-Xin Hu and colleagues reveals that underwater turbulence can both absorb and amplify acoustic waves, with signal changes exceeding 60%. This effect occurs at frequencies much higher than the turbulence itself and does not cause spectral broadening. The findings, based on experiments in pipe flow and free jets, highlight how wave frequency—not amplitude—controls amplification. These insights could impact underwater communication and sonar technologies as researchers explore practical applications.

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Sources (3)

Fundamental thermo-visco mechanical interactions governing the acoustic response of laser-excited nanoparticles arXiv - Physics 14 Apr 2026, 04:00
Hydroacoustic Absorption and Amplification by Turbulence arXiv - Physics 14 Apr 2026, 04:00
'Ghost tunnels' guide sound waves in one direction while staying invisible to others Phys.org 13 Apr 2026, 14:20

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