Final answer:
The speed of sound in water can be found by doubling the distance given (2900m to the seabed and back equals 5800m) and dividing it by the time it takes for the signal to return (4 seconds), which gives us 1450 m/s.
Step-by-step explanation:
To calculate the speed of sound in water using the information given that a stationary ship sends an ultrasound signal to the seabed 2900m away and the echo is heard after 4 seconds, one would use the formula speed = distance / time. However, it's important to remember that the signal travels to the seabed and back, meaning the total distance covered by the sound wave is twice the depth of the ocean.
The total distance the signal travels is therefore 2900m to the seabed plus 2900m back to the ship, totaling 5800m. The time it takes for the round trip is 4 seconds. Using the formula speed = distance / time, we can calculate the speed of sound in water: speed = 5800m / 4s = 1450 meters per second (m/s).
This calculation is based on the principles of sonar technology, which utilizes the reflecting properties of sound waves in a technique known as Sound Navigation And Ranging. This technology is critical for various applications, including navigation and exploring the depths of the ocean.