What does the Teaspoon Rule define in terms of sound transmission?

The Teaspoon Rule is a guideline used to estimate sound speed in water based on temperature and depth. Option A states that sound travels at a speed of 4800 feet per second at a temperature of 39 degrees Fahrenheit, with a depth of 0 feet and a salinity of 35 parts per thousand (ppt). This value aligns with established empirical data where the sound speed in seawater is directly influenced by both temperature and salinity.

In this context, the sound speed of 4800 feet per second at the specified conditions reflects the typical values recognized in oceanographic studies. The rule is valuable for ensuring that sound transmission calculations in marine environments take into account essential variables, yielding accurate estimations critical for various applications such as underwater communication, sonar operations, and oceanographic research. The accuracy of the 4800 fps figure under these conditions underscores the reliability of this option as a representation of the Teaspoon Rule.