The Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) recently held a workshop focused on utilizing infrasound for monitoring nuclear tests. Established in 1996, the CTBTO is responsible for creating a verification system for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), though India is not a signatory.
What is Infrasound?
Infrasound refers to low-frequency sound waves that range between 0.002 and 20 Hertz (Hz), below the threshold of human hearing. These waves are detected using microbarometers, which are sensitive to the smallest fluctuations in atmospheric pressure caused by infrasounds.
Sources of Infrasound
Natural: Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and severe weather events like storms and meteors.
Non-natural: Human activities such as mining, chemical explosions, and most notably, nuclear explosions.
Applications of Infrasound
One of the key uses of infrasound is in detecting distant nuclear explosions. The CTBTO's International Monitoring System (IMS) uses this technology to track any such activity across the globe. Additionally, infrasound is applied in various fields including checking the structural health of buildings and infrastructure, as well as for wildlife tracking.
The Significance of Infrasound for Nuclear Test Monitoring
Infrasound provides a critical non-invasive method to monitor for nuclear tests from far-off locations, helping ensure global security. As countries work towards non-proliferation, infrasound plays an essential role in maintaining a check on secret or illegal nuclear activities. Beyond nuclear testing, the technology's broader applications in fields such as environmental monitoring and infrastructure safety make it a versatile tool for scientists worldwide.
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