Further, the physical shape of the individual components of these materials strongly influence reflectivity and backscattering potential. Seabed topography also determines the reflected energy strength from the sonar beam. Up slopes facing the towfish are far better reflectors than down slopes because of the lower angle of incidence of the sonar pulse as it encounters the seafloor. Topography with a lower angle of incidence appears dark on the record. Since material reflectors and topographic reflectors often produce the same effect on the sonar display, it is up to the operator to interpret the sonar record carefully in order to determine the actual makeup and configuration of the seabed.
Experience is the key here.
When interpreting side-scan data, find a free lab and roll out as much data as possible to get an overview. If possible roll parallel lines beside each other to effectiveley make your own mosaic. Reflection continuity Related to the continuity of stratal surfaces and may be an indicator of depositional environment. High continuity is characteristic of sediments deposited in low energy lacustrine and marine environments. Such sequences typically display chaotic to inclined, discontinuous, low-amplitude reflectors against a noisy acoustic background.