Hydrophone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hydrophone
[ˈhaɪdroʊfoʊn ]
Definition
oceanography technology
A hydrophone is an underwater microphone used to detect and record sound in aquatic environments. Typically employed in oceanographic research, hydrophones can capture sounds from marine life, geological activity, and human-made sources. This technology is crucial for studying the ocean, as sound travels more efficiently in water than in air. Hydrophones can be used for various applications, including monitoring marine mammal behavior and assessing environmental impact. Often, multiple hydrophones are deployed in array setups to triangulate sound sources.
Synonyms
submarine microphone, underwater microphone.
Examples of usage
- The researchers deployed several hydrophones to monitor whale calls.
- Hydrophones are essential tools for studying underwater acoustics.
- Using hydrophones, scientists recorded the sounds of underwater volcanic activity.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- Hydrophones are essential in underwater acoustics, used in submarines, marine biology research, and environmental monitoring.
- This device plays a vital role in advanced naval technology, helping detect submarines and other underwater objects.
Science
- Hydrophones can detect sounds from marine life, including whale songs, which provide insights into animal communication and behavior.
- Scientists use hydrophones to study ocean noise pollution and its impact on aquatic life, raising awareness about conservation.
Exploration
- During World War I, hydrophones were used extensively for submarine detection, making them critical in naval warfare.
- Modern oceanography often relies on hydrophones to map underwater features and monitor ocean currents.
Popular Culture
- In movies and documentaries, hydrophones have been used to capture enchanting underwater sounds, adding to the storytelling.
- They feature prominently in marine research documentaries, showcasing the beauty and mystery of ocean life through sound.
Origin of 'hydrophone'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hydrophone' is derived from Greek roots: 'hydro' meaning water and 'phone' meaning sound.
- The term first appeared in the late 19th century as underwater communication technology began to develop.
The term 'hydrophone' derives from the combination of 'hydro-', a prefix meaning 'water', and '-phone', a suffix indicating sound or voice. The word's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when advances in underwater acoustics prompted the need for specialized equipment to record and analyze sound in marine environments. As the fields of oceanography and marine biology evolved, so did the technology surrounding hydrophones, leading to more sophisticated designs capable of capturing a wider range of frequencies and improving sound quality. Today, hydrophones play a vital role in various scientific studies, including those focused on ocean noise pollution, animal communication, and geophysical research.