In oceanography, what does a mad setting indicate?

A mad setting in oceanography relates to the environmental conditions affecting sound propagation in water. The term 'mad' can refer to Mean Acoustic Depth, which considers various factors, including water temperature, salinity, and pressure, that influence sound transmission in the ocean. These factors collectively determine how effectively sound can travel through the water column, which is essential for sonar operations.

While sensitivity of sonar equipment is important, the mad setting specifically focuses on the environmental variables that determine sound speed and clarity. This understanding is crucial for interpreting sonar data accurately, as environmental conditions significantly impact sonar performance and the accuracy of acoustic measurements in oceanographic studies.