On a dipping sonar system, what component generates and transmits sound energy into the water?

The transducer is the key component in a dipping sonar system that generates and transmits sound energy into the water. Its primary function is to convert electrical energy into acoustic energy, allowing for the production of sound waves that propagate through the water. When the transducer emits these sound waves, they travel until they encounter objects or the seabed, at which point they reflect back towards the transducer. This ability to transmit and receive sound is critical for detecting and locating underwater objects, such as submarines or other marine life.

In contrast, the amplifier's role is to increase the strength of the signals received from the transducer for better interpretation, while the receiver processes the incoming signals to extract meaningful information. The hydrophone is specifically used for receiving sound waves, converting the acoustical energy back into electrical signals, but it does not perform the function of transmitting sound energy. Thus, the transducer is essential for the active operation of the sonar system by enabling sound transmission, making the correct choice clear.