Further Investigation of the Eel River Shelf Resistivity Structure

摘要

Maps of sedimentary physical properties are essential to a complete understanding of processes shaping the continental shelf. We have demonstrated that measurements of electrical resistivity can provide exciting new insights into shelf structure. But there is more work to be done in tying the results of electromagnetic (EM) studies to those of more conventional surveys such as the extensive coring efforts on the Eel River shelf, high-resolution seismic reflection profiling, and surficial acoustic backscatter measurements. Through these efforts we can increase the amount of information extractable from an EM data set and therefore improve our understanding of sedimentary processes. The objectives of this research are as follows: (1) provide insights into inverting seafloor EM data through a comparison of in-situ resistivity profiles and cores, (2) understand the cause of anomalously high resistivities seen in one area of the Eel River shelf, and (3) understand the links between the present day surface expression of the Eel River subaqueous delta and a spatially coincident buried resistive layer seen in EM surveying.