How are underwater sounds classified?

Underwater sounds are classified as natural or manmade because this distinction highlights the source of the sounds in the aquatic environment. Natural sounds are typically produced by environmental factors like marine life, underwater geological activities, and oceanic phenomena such as waves and currents. Examples include the calls of whales, the sounds of snapping shrimp, or the noise generated by underwater volcanic eruptions.

Manmade sounds, on the other hand, arise from human activities. This includes sounds from ships, submarines, and industrial activities such as drilling or construction. The classification into natural and manmade helps in understanding the impact of these sounds on marine ecosystems, marine life behavior, and the overall acoustic environment of the oceans.

The other classifications suggested do not accurately encompass the primary sources of underwater sounds. For instance, while mechanical sounds involve artificial constructions, they are a subset of manmade sounds rather than an entirely separate category. Similarly, synthesized sounds might refer to sounds created using electronic means, which also fall under the broader context of manmade sounds. Thus, the classification of underwater sounds as natural or manmade effectively communicates their origins and significance in marine biology and ecology.