Characteristics of SeaMARC II phase data

The dispersion of SeaMARC II phase-difference samples is discussed. They appear to be a function of signal direction, range, noise level, and backscatter strength of the bottom. Field data from a lava flow area and from sedimented areas at different depths are compared. The temporal distribution of the phase-difference samples was skewed and asymmetrical about the model. The angular distribution was symmetrical about the mode, with some phase wrap-around. The field data show the presence of a complicated noise interference field. The amount of phase-difference dispersion was larger than that calculated by using a simple Gaussian isotropic noise model, possibly suggesting an additional phase-dispersion process caused by bottom roughness. The method used to produce bathymetry data from the phase-difference samples was evaluated in light of the phase-difference sample distribution