What does the topography of the ocean floor look like (5 photos)

Information about the bottom topography is obtained using sonars, or echo sounders, installed on ships. From satellites, the topography of the bottom of seas and oceans is not visible.

Indian Ocean

Sonar sends a sound signal into the depths, which travels through the water until it encounters an obstacle. The sound wave is reflected from the obstacle and returns upward, where it is “caught” by the sonar receiver. From the time the signal returns, the distance to the object can be calculated. By taking many measurements in one place, topographers get an idea of the bottom topography.

I would like to bring to your attention some magnificent works - hypsometric maps of the ocean floor.

Relief map of the Atlantic Ocean

Bottom relief map of the Arctic Ocean

Relief map of the Pacific Ocean floor

Mariana Trench region