Both Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR) and Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) technologies can locate objects due to the reflection of waves, as shown below.

Question

SONAR is mainly used to detect objects underwater, whereas RADAR is mainly used to detect objects on or above the Earth's surface. Which of the following best explains why RADAR is not typically used to locate objects underwater?
A.
RADAR waves are more amplified underwater than SONAR waves.
B.
RADAR waves do not travel as well underwater as SONAR waves.
C.
RADAR waves have longer wavelengths underwater than SONAR waves.
D.
RADAR waves cannot travel underwater while SONAR waves can.

Answer 1

The best explanation for why RADAR is not typically used to locate objects underwater is:

B. RADAR waves do not travel as well underwater as SONAR waves.

RADAR uses radio waves, which are significantly absorbed and scattered by water, especially at greater depths. In contrast, SONAR utilizes sound waves, which can travel much further in water and are much less affected by the medium.