Concept in Definition ABC

The knowledge of the aquatic depths is essential for navigation and for any aquatic activity. The discipline technique that deals with this area of ​​knowledge is known as bathymetry or topography hydrographic.

The fundamental idea of ​​this discipline is to establish an accurate measurement of the aquatic depths

To do this, information is obtained from the marine relief and in this way it is possible to prepare navigation charts or obtain data for the building civil works or carry out environmental studies.

Data are collected on the underwater relief, the rugged areas, the identification of currents or the geological characteristics of the bottoms. This whole process of obtaining data is known as a bathymetric survey.

The bathymetry of the underwater depths is equivalent to the topography of the land surface.

Different methods to know the underwater depths

The ancient Egyptians already used stones tied to a rope to know the exact depth of the Nile. Since then the methods used in bathymetry have not stopped evolving. At present the knowledge of the underwater bed of the planet is practically known in its entirety.

Bathymetry conventional is based on a topographic study in which the basic coordinates of the underwater terrain are established and For this, a sonar incorporated into a boat is used that determines the landmarks references submarine. In this way, by sending signals to the bottom of the water, the depth of the water can be calculated with great precision. Is methodology allows to establish the set of lines along the body of the water and this is done from statistical formulas.

The observation for satelite combined with sophisticated software it is the most advanced current technique. This procedure requires a specialized vessel with high technology that detects underwater magnetic vibrations.

In recent years bathymetries can already be performed using drones. This procedure allows a significant cost reduction.

Bathymetry and underwater archeology

Deep-sea tracking can also be targeted at the investigation of the archaeological remains. Archaeological prospecting of the marine environment makes it possible to locate submerged sites, such as ports of the antiquity, wrecks or structures that were built on land and that eventually ended up in the deep sea.

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