Advantages of using the vertical gradient of gravity for 3-D interpretation

Geophysics ◽  
1993 ◽  
Vol 58 (11) ◽  
pp. 1588-1595 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. Marson ◽  
E. E. Klingele

Gravity gradiometric data or gravity data transformed into vertical gradient can be efficiently processed in three dimensions for delineating density discontinuities. Model studies, performed with the combined use of maxima of analytic signal and of horizontal gradient and the Euler deconvolution techniques on the gravity field and its vertical gradient, demonstrate the superiority of the latter in locating density contrasts. Particularly in the case of interfering anomalies, where the use of gravity alone fails, the gravity gradient is able to provide useful information with satisfactory accuracy.

Geophysics ◽  
1995 ◽  
Vol 60 (4) ◽  
pp. 1018-1028 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dwain K. Butler

Gravity gradient profiles across subsurface structures that are approximately 2-D contain diagnostic information regarding depth, size, and structure (geometry). Gradient space plots, i.e., plots of horizontal gradient versus vertical gradient, present the complete magnitude and phase information in the gradient profiles simultaneously. Considerable previous work demonstrates the possibility for complete structural interpretation of a truncated plate model from the gradient space plot. The qualitative and quantitative diagnostic information contained in gradient space plots is general, however. Examination of the characteristics of gradient space plots reveals that 2-D structures are readily classified as extended or localized. For example, the truncated plate model is an extended model, while the faulted plate model is a localized model. Comparison of measured or calculated gradient space plots to a model gradient space plot catalog allows a rapid, qualitative determination of structure or geometry. “Corners” of a polygonal cross‐section model are then determined as profile points corresponding to maxima on the vertical gradient profile. A generalized approach to structural interpretation from gravity data consists of (1) determining vertical and horizontal gradient profiles perpendicular to the strike of a 2-D gravity anomaly, (2) determining the structural geometry from the gradient space plot, and (3) locating profile positions of structural corners from the vertical gradient profile. This generalized inversion procedure requires no quantitative information or assumption regarding density contrasts. Iterative forward modeling then predicts the density contrasts. Application of this generalized gravity gradient inversion procedure to high quality gravity data results in an effective density prediction consistent with measured near‐surface densities and the known increase in density with depth in deep sedimentary basins.


Geophysics ◽  
1994 ◽  
Vol 59 (11) ◽  
pp. 1786-1786
Author(s):  
I. Marson ◽  
E. E. Klingele

Our paper is a discussion aimed to show how the vertical gradient of gravity can be successfully used for quantitative interpretation in three dimensions (i.e., solving for the three coordinates [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] of the source body) with methods like analytic signal and Euler deconvolution.


Geophysics ◽  
1966 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 816-820 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas A. Elkins

The recent interest in borehole gravimeters and vertical gravity gradient meters makes it worthwhile to analyze the simple case of the vertical gravity gradient on the axis of a hollow cylinder, simulating a borehole. From the viewpoint of potential theory the results are interesting because of the discontinuities which may occur when a vertical gradient profile crosses a sudden change in density. Formulas for the vertical gradient effect are given for observations above, inside, and below a hollow cylinder and a solid cylinder. The special case of an infinitely large outer radius for the cylinders is also considered, leading to formulas for the vertical gradient effect inside a borehole on its axis and inside a horizontal slab. Some remarks are made on the influence of the shape of a buried vertical gradient meter on the correction factor for changing the meter reading to density.


Geophysics ◽  
1984 ◽  
Vol 49 (7) ◽  
pp. 1084-1096 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dwain K. Butler

Microgravimetric and gravity gradient surveying techniques are applicable to the detection and delineation of shallow subsurface cavities and tunnels. Two case histories of the use of these techniques to site investigations in karst regions are presented. In the first case history, the delineation of a shallow (∼10 m deep), air‐filled cavity system by a microgravimetric survey is demonstrated. Also, application of familiar ring and center point techniques produces derivative maps which demonstrate (1) the use of second derivative techniques to produce a “residual” gravity map, and (2) the ability of first derivative techniques to resolve closely spaced or complex subsurface features. In the second case history, a deeper (∼ 30 m deep), water‐filled cavity system is adequately detected by a microgravity survey. Results of an interval (tower) vertical gradient survey along a profile line are presented in the second case history; this vertical gradient survey successfully detected shallow (<6 m) anomalous features such as limestone pinnacles and clay pockets, but the data are too “noisy” to permit detection of the vertical gradient anomaly caused by the cavity system. Interval horizontal gradients were determined along the same profile line at the second site, and a vertical gradient profile is determined from the horizontal gradient profile by a Hilbert transform technique. The measured horizontal gradient profile and the computed vertical gradient profile compare quite well with corresponding profiles calculated for a two‐dimensional model of the cavity system.


Geophysics ◽  
1979 ◽  
Vol 44 (1) ◽  
pp. 99-101 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sigmund Hammer

Several recent publications advocate the use of the vertical gradient of gravity from gravimeter measurements at two elevations in a portable tower (Thyssen‐Bornemisza, 1976; Fajklewicz, 1976; Mortimer, 1977). Contrary opinions have also been expressed (Hammer and Anzoleaga, 1975; Stanley and Green, 1976; Thysen‐Bornemisza, 1977; Arzi, 1977). The disagreement revolves around the question of practically attainable precision of the vertical gradient tower method. Although it is possible to calculate both horizontal and vertical gradients from conventional gravity survey data by use of the Hilbert transform (Stanley and Green, 1976), it should be noted that highly precise gravity data are required. Also the need for connected elevation and location surveys, the major cost in gravity surveying, is not avoided. This is a significant advantage of the gradient methods. The purpose here is to present a brief consideration of the relative precision of the horizontal and vertical gradients, as measured in the field by special gravimeter observations.


Geophysics ◽  
1986 ◽  
Vol 51 (7) ◽  
pp. 1505-1508 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. R. LaFehr ◽  
Kwok C. Chan

In his reply to C. J. Swain’s (1984) discussion Karl states that no one has disagreed with his proposed (0.265 mGal/m) “average value” for the normal gravity gradient and that his global terrain model can be used to challenge the validity of the traditional approach to data reduction. Our investigations show that Karl is in error on both counts, and we hope that the following analyses will help toward a clearer understanding of this question.


2021 ◽  
Vol 54 (2C) ◽  
pp. 13-28
Author(s):  
Kawtar Benyas

The analysis of the magnetic signatures and gravity gradient values of the Rehamna Massif south of the Moroccan Western Meseta by using Geosoft Oasis Montaj 7.0.1 software, allowed us to detect several useful anomalies to be exploited and which are related to magmatic bodies and structural features within the study area. These data were analyzed by applying several techniques, including the horizontal gradient filters combined with the first vertical derivative. Subsurface structures; such as geological boundaries, faults, dykes and folds, were visualized as lineaments on geophysical maps, then results were compared with structural features provided by previous studies in the region. Thus, the Rehamna Massif structural map shows sets of linear features which may represent faults or boundaries of geological structures, which can be either faults or boundaries of geological structures, and they are mostly oriented in the directions: N-S, NNE-SSW, NE-SW, E-W with the predominance of the NNE-SSW to NE-SW directions. In addition, the super position of the minerals bearing beds or formations were distinguished from gravity and magnetic data processing results. Some of the recognized anomalies are related to the existence of precious metals which belong to the granitic bodies within the study area.


2014 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suhayat Minardi ◽  
Hiden Hiden ◽  
Daharta Dahrin ◽  
Mahmud Yusuf

Studies have been conducted to identify the occurrence of subsidence, a decline of groundwater, and to model the causes of subsidence in areas of Jakarta based on response of microgravity anomaly and vertical gravity gradient over time. Based on the processing and interpretation of gravity data advance of the time concluded that by using a combination of time lapse microgravity and its vertical gradient have been able to localize the source of the gravity anomaly and the results are strongly support the results of filtering to separate the source of the anomaly. The subsidence that occurs predominantly due to resettlement (in West and North Jakarta), caused by the extraction of groundwater and resettlement (in Central and East Jakarta), and dominated due to the extraction of groundwater (in South Jakarta).Keywords : Groundwater, time lapse micogravity, time lapse vertical gradient, resettlement, subsidence


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document