Evaluation of seismic reflector slopes with a Yoyo-CTD

In spring 2007 a dedicated seismic and oceanographic experiment was conducted in the Gulf of Cadiz. Employing two research vessels seismic and hydrographic observations were made contemporaneously and in close proximity. At a 12 hour long station inside a Meddy a conductivity‐temperature‐depth (CTD) probe was lowered and raised repeatedly while the seismic vessel conducted a repetitive survey on tracks nearby. Over the period 17 CTD profiles were collected covering the depth interval from 500 to 1700 m. The CTD data show the Meddy's elevated temperatures and salinities as well as varying intrusive features. When converted into reflection coefficients and convoluted with the seismic source signal the CTD data agrees well with nearby seismic data. The comparison of the temporal/spatial slopes of CTD‐derived reflectors with those of isopycnals shows a good agreement when the slopes are determined over intervals shorter than 4 hours.