Seismic Scattering: Topography, Faulting, Fluid/Melt

In summary, seismic scattering refers to the process of waves being scattered and reflected as they pass through different materials within the Earth's crust. This scattering can be influenced by topography, such as mountains and valleys, as well as by faulting, which creates changes in the composition and density of the rock. The presence of fluids or molten materials can also affect the scattering of seismic waves, providing valuable information about the subsurface structure and potential hazards. Overall, seismic scattering is a key tool in studying the Earth's structure and understanding geological processes.
  • #1
bert2002
16
0
How do the following affect seismic scattering ?

1) topography
2) faulting
3) fluid and melt

Any scientific sources are appreciated, thanks
 
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  • #2
bert2002 said:
How do the following affect seismic scattering ?

1) topography
2) faulting
3) fluid and melt

Any scientific sources are appreciated, thanks

What have you found in your reading so far?
 
  • #3
I know that seismic scattering occurs as a result of the wavefield interaction with a heterogeneity that is of a similar scale length to the incident wavelength, but i do not know how each of these particular entities has an effect, if at all ?
 
  • #4
OK I am not going to do them all for you, since I am sure you really do know how to use google

put your questions into google one at a time ... I did the first one for you

how does topography affect seismic scattering ?

and as an example, got ...

http://www.lpi.usra.edu/meetings/lpsc2011/pdf/1961.pdf

now have a play and see what else you can find :)

cheers
Dave
 
  • #5
Topography would be a geometric effect, in addition to differences in interfaces between different media.

What is a fault?

What is the significance of fluid or molten rock - as compared to solid rock? Think about the speed of sound and elastic properties?
 

Related to Seismic Scattering: Topography, Faulting, Fluid/Melt

1. What is seismic scattering?

Seismic scattering is a phenomenon that occurs when seismic waves encounter heterogeneities or irregularities in the Earth's subsurface. These waves can be reflected, refracted, or diffracted due to variations in the density, composition, or structure of the rocks, resulting in changes in the direction and amplitude of the wave.

2. How does topography affect seismic scattering?

Topography, or the surface features of the Earth, can affect seismic scattering by causing variations in the speed and direction of seismic waves. This is because the physical properties of the rocks that make up the Earth's surface can change abruptly at the interface between different types of terrain, leading to changes in how seismic waves interact with the subsurface.

3. What role does faulting play in seismic scattering?

Faulting, or the movement and displacement of rocks along a fracture in the Earth's crust, can have a significant impact on seismic scattering. Faults can act as barriers or reflectors for seismic waves, causing them to scatter and diffract in different directions. Faults can also change the physical properties of the rocks they cut through, leading to changes in the speed and direction of seismic waves.

4. How does the presence of fluids and melts affect seismic scattering?

The presence of fluids and melts, such as water, oil, or magma, can greatly influence seismic scattering. These materials have different physical properties than solid rocks and can cause seismic waves to scatter and attenuate as they pass through them. The presence of fluids and melts can also affect the speed and direction of seismic waves, as well as create new seismic reflections and refractions.

5. What techniques are used to study seismic scattering?

There are several techniques used to study seismic scattering, including seismic reflection and refraction surveys, seismic tomography, and seismic interferometry. These methods use different types of seismic data and processing techniques to image and map subsurface structures and heterogeneities that can cause scattering of seismic waves.

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