Why do scientists perform seismic surveys in the oceans?
Geophysical seismic surveying enables geophysicists to “see” the structure of the Earth beneath the surface. The overarching goal of this work is to document the history of the Earth and the processes by which it evolves. This knowledge is vital for understanding climate and sea-level change, Earthquakes and other natural hazards, and the formation and distribution of natural resources. How do scientists see the seafloor and whats beneath it? Instead of using light waves reflected off objects to perceive things visually, scientists use acoustic energy waves to “see” deep into the Earth’s crust. Unlike light, acoustic energy can travel through seawater and penetrate layers of rock and sediment beneath the Earths surface. When acoustic energy waves pass through the Earth they are reflected by some types of rock and sediments and they are bent, or refracted, by others. Devices placed on land, the seafloor or towed by a research ship are used to record the reflected and/or refracted energy
