Reflection Energetics and Acoustic Impedance of the Seabed from Normal-Incidence Seismic Reflections-Somali Basin.

摘要

Useful estimates of seabed acoustic impedance variations in depth and location can be derived from measurements of the travel time rate at which low frequency normal incidence reflected seismic energy is received. Analysis techniques are straightforward and easily applied to station data and to traverse profiles to evaluate the lateral continuity of material properties from one location to another. Added to critical judgment, geological and geophysical evidence, e.g. drill-hole cores, outcrops and interval and critical refraction velocity measurements, reflection energetics measurements provide improved insight with which to justify classifications of seabed materials within the constraints of available information. Major conclusions from our audit of reflected energy are that reflection energetics measurements and impedance estimates agree with and/or corroborate the other geological and geophysical evidence, and that such an audit has unique utility in the interpretation of seismic reflection profiles, particularly as to the degree of lateral continuity in the seabed physical properties. Logical extension of the technique to higher frequencies will provide higher resolution for assessing the surficial seabed characteristics.