The correlation of geophysical data (side-scan sonar and subbottom profiler <FONT FACE=Symbol>-</FONT> 3.5 and 7.0 kHz) has enabled the characterization of the sediment distribution along the southern portion of the Guanabara Bay (Rio de Janeiro <FONT FACE=Symbol>-</FONT> Brazil). Four distinct echocharacter types were recognized: type 1 shows no penetration of the acoustic signal, it is associated with a sandy bottom and with a light gray homogeneous sonograph pattern with sand waves and mega ripples; type 2A presents internal reflectors and the acoustic basement, it is related to a muddy bottom with high content (%) of fine sand and to light gray homogeneous sonograms; type 2B is marked by signal penetration and is related to a sandy bottom with high content (%) of mud and to dark grey homogeneous sonograms; and, finally, type 3 with signal penetration and multiples, it is associated with a muddy bottom with high content (%) of fine sand, and is related to dark gray homogeneous sonograph patterns.
Guanabara Bay; High-frequency seismic; Side-scan sonar; Bottom sediments
