Scientists find dolphins do well in math

(Image source: Thinkstock)

According to Discovery News, a new study by researchers at the University of Southampton in England suggests that dolphins use various types of mathematical calculations to estimate how far they are from their prey.

The inspiration for the study came as Tim Leighton, professor of ultrasound and underwater acoustics, watched an episode of Discovery Channel's Blue Planet show during which he observed that dolphins released air bubbles around schools before attacking them. them, forming a kind of network.

Powerpower Biosonar

Such a technique, if used by standard sonars, would generate a huge amount of "noise" in the image, making it impossible to detect any target using these devices. The researchers then decided to examine how dolphins process the signals emitted by their biosonars, finding that these animals send signals with different amplitudes, being able to remember the interval between each other.

This means that these mammals are likely to be able to multiply, add and subtract the amplitudes of the emitted signals, thereby accurately estimating the distance and location of the shoals, as well as differentiating air bubbles from prey. You can check out more details about the study by clicking on this link.

In addition to discovering one more skill of these amazing animals, the novelty can give rise to new types of sonar that can distinguish hidden objects even in waters where there are many air bubbles, something standard sonars are unable to do today.

Sources: Proceedings of the Royal Society A, University of Southampton and Discovery News