Journal of Geology & Geophysics
Open Access

A Systematic Approach to Understanding Seismic Wave Velocity Layered Tomography

Elhoucine Essefi^{* *}Correspondence: Elhoucine Essefi, Department of Geophysics, Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes, University of Gabes, Zrig Eddakhlania, Tunisia, Email:

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Description

Seismic tomography is a technique used to generate images of the subsurface of the Earth, providing insights into the structure and properties of the Earth's interior. Seismic waves generated by earthquakes or explosions can be measured and analyzed to determine the distribution of seismic wave velocity and density within the Earth's crust and mantle. Seismic wave velocity layered tomography is a powerful tool that builds on traditional seismic tomography techniques to create detailed images of the subsurface.

Seismic wave velocity layered tomography is based on the principles of seismic tomography, but with added layers of complexity. The technique involves dividing the subsurface into a series of layers, each with a different seismic wave velocity. By measuring the travel times of seismic waves as they pass through each layer, it is possible to determine the distribution of seismic wave velocity and density within the Earth's crust and mantle.

The basic principle of seismic wave velocity layered tomography is the same as traditional seismic tomography: the measurement of seismic wave travel times. Seismic waves generated by earthquakes or explosions propagate through the Earth at different velocities depending on the properties of the materials they encounter. By measuring the time it takes for seismic waves to travel from the source to a receiver, it is possible to calculate the distance the waves have traveled, and thus the velocity of the waves.

Seismic wave velocity layered tomography builds on this principle by dividing the subsurface into a series of layers, each with a different seismic wave velocity. By measuring the travel times of seismic waves as they pass through each layer, it is possible to determine the distribution of seismic wave velocity and density within the Earth's crust and mantle.

One of the key advantages of seismic wave velocity layered tomography is its ability to image small-scale structures in the subsurface. Traditional seismic tomography methods struggle to image small-scale structures, as they are often obscured by larger scale features. Seismic wave velocity layered tomography overcomes this limitation by focusing on the relative differences in travel times between layers, which are more sensitive to smallscale structures. This allows for more detailed and accurate images of the subsurface, including features such as faults, fractures, and small-scale variations in velocity and density.

Recent advancements in seismic wave velocity layered tomography have improved its accuracy and efficiency, making it an increasingly popular technique for imaging the subsurface. One such advancement is the use of three-dimensional inversion methods, which allow for the imaging of the subsurface in three dimensions. Three-dimensional inversion methods take into account the complex geometry of the Earth's interior, allowing for a more accurate representation of the subsurface.

Another advancement in seismic wave velocity layered tomography is the use of full-waveform inversion, which involves the inversion of the entire seismic waveform rather than just the travel times. Full-waveform inversion provides a more detailed and accurate representation of the subsurface, allowing for the imaging of small-scale features with greater clarity.

Seismic wave velocity layered tomography has many applications, including in the exploration and production of oil, gas, and minerals. It can be used to locate and map subsurface geological structures, such as faults, fractures, and reservoirs, providing valuable information for resource exploration and development. Seismic wave velocity layered tomography can also be used to monitor subsurface changes, such as those caused by natural disasters or human activities like mining and drilling.

Seismic wave velocity layered tomography is a powerful tool for imaging the subsurface of the Earth. By dividing the subsurface into a series of layers with different seismic wave velocities, it is possible to generate detailed images of the Earth's interior, providing insights into its structure and properties. Recent advancements in the field, including three-dimensional inversion methods and full-waveform inversion, have improved the accuracy and efficiency of seismic wave velocity layered tomography.