The feasibility of measurement of transport and heat flux of the Florida current by acoustic methods

We consider the feasibility of measuring the mass transport and heat flux in the Florida current by acoustic methods. A significant fraction of the net poleward mass transport is known to pass through the Florida Straits and then contributes to the origin of the Gulf Stream. Peak currents of 4 to 5 knots across the 50 nmi span make measurements difficult with conventional oceanographic moorings. However, acoustic transmission is by Refracted Bottom-Reflected (RBR) rays, and therefore bottom-mounted sources and receivers can be used to sample the entire water column. The concept of reciprocal (two-way) transmission [Worcester, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 62, 895–905 (1977)] allows for separation of transport and integrated temperature along a ray. The results of model studies show that the concept is feasible with existing hardware and signal-processing technique. [Work supported by ONR.]