Environmental geology

The impact of depth-dependent geophysical parameters on the acoustic pressure reflection coefficient is studied at normal incidence using the Biot-Stoll theory in porous marine sediments. The seabed is modeled as a sediment layer with depth-dependent properties on top of a homogeneous half-space, as originally proposed by Stern. There is no discontinuity in sediment properties between the layer and the half-space. The reflection coefficient is determined by the evaluation of boundary conditions at the water-sediment layer interface and the sediment layer-half-space interface. Results are obtained for different types of sediment, from medium size sands to silty clay, and different porosity profiles vs. depth.

The Florida Reef Tract in Southeast Florida is made up of hard-bottom formations. The shape and size of the tract is constantly changing. One major factor contributing to these changes is the movement of sand. This is influenced by location-based, human-induced, and natural factors. These shifting sands cover or uncover reef structure. Images of the Florida Reef Tract in Palm Beach County were analyzed by the Department of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University, using a partially automated method of mapping. There are notable changes in reef structure throughout the years 2004-2006, in which many major storm events occurred in the region. A time series analysis was conducted throughout these years. Losses and gains of reef structure were quantified and compared throughout the county as a whole, in beach renourishment project areas, and inlet intervals. Trends suggest that the major storms of 2004-2006 may have had effects on the reef tract.