SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Practice Exam

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Prepare for the SDI Open Water Scuba Diver Exam. Explore flashcards and multiple-choice questions that include hints and explanations. Dive into this immersive preparation experience to ensure your success!

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True or False: Sound waves can travel for great distances underwater.

True
False
Only in shallow waters
Only during stormy conditions

The correct answer is: True

Sound waves can indeed travel for great distances underwater, which is why the answer is true. When sound travels through water, it propagates more effectively than it does through air due to water's higher density. This allows sound waves to travel longer distances without losing their energy as quickly, making underwater communication and echolocation possible. The unique properties of water enable sound waves to travel at speeds of approximately 1,500 meters per second, which is faster than in air. Additionally, sound waves can bend and refract in water, allowing them to reach faraway sources. This phenomenon is utilized by marine animals and is the reason why sonar technology is effective for locating objects or other vessels underwater. The other choices do not accurately describe the behavior of sound in water. Sound does not only travel in shallow waters or during stormy conditions; its ability to travel long distances is consistent throughout various underwater environments, not limited by depth or weather conditions.