Final answer:
The SOFAR channel is the zone where sound travels the farthest in the ocean, taking advantage of minimum sound speed in the thermocline layer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The zone of the ocean where sound can travel extremely long distances is called the SOFAR channel. This channel, also known as the Sound Fixing and Ranging channel, takes advantage of the ocean's sound channel where the speed of sound is at its minimum. This unique area allows for low-frequency sounds to travel vast distances across the ocean. The SOFAR channel lies at a depth where there is a sharp change in temperature and density known as the thermocline. Reflecting properties of sound waves are utilized in sonar technology, which stands for Sound Navigation And Ranging. Ships use sonar to determine the distance to the ocean bottom by transmitting sound waves and measuring the time it takes to bounce back. The ocean is stratified into different zones, such as the photic and aphotic zones, as well as the oceanic and benthic realms, but only the SOFAR channel facilitates the long-distance transmission of sound.