Spatial correlation of surface-generated noise in a stratified ocean

Abstract

A model is developed for the calculation of the spatial properties of the noise field produced in a stratified ocean by the action of wind at the surface. The random noise sources are represented by correlated monopoles distributed over an infinite plane located an arbitrary depth below the surface. Wave-theoretical methods are applied to derive expressions for the intensity and spatial correlation of the noise field. A normal-mode representation of the noise field is used to reduce these expressions to forms which allow physical interpretation and are suitable for numerical computation. Examples are given of intensity profiles and spatial correlation in the vertical for three generic sound-speed profiles. The results show that the sound-speed profile and the presence of the bottom can be important in determining the spatial properties of the noise field. An example is given of a calculation of the horizontal spatial correlation using the fast field program (FFP).