Theoretical Issues with Rayleigh Surface Waves and Geoelectrical Method Used for the Inversion of Near Surface Geophysical Structure

Abstract

We numerically simulate the field measurements of Rayleigh surface waves and electrical resistivity in which the target depth is set to be less than 50 m. Rayleigh surface waves are simulated in terms of fundamental mode group and phase velocities. The seismic field data is assumed to be collected through a conventional shot-gather. The group velocities are found from the application of the multiple filter technique in a single-station fashion while for the phase velocities the slant stacking, or linear radon transform are applied in fashion of multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW). The average seismic structure from the source to the receiver (or geophone) is represented by the group velocity curve, while the average seismic structure underneath the geophone array is represented by the phase velocity curve. The single-station group velocity curves are transformed into local group velocity curves by setting a linear system through grid points. The shear-wave velocity cross section underneath the examined area is constructed by inverting these local group velocity curves. The electrical resistivity structure of the underground is similarly studied. The field compilation of the resistivity data is assumed to be completed by the application of the multiple electrode Pole-Pole array. The actual resistivity assemble underneath the analyzed area is inverted by considering the apparent (measured) resistivity values. Unique forms such as ore body, cavity, sinkhole, melt, salt, and fluid within the Earth may be examined by joint interpretation of electrical resistivities and seismic velocities. These formations may be better outlined by following their distinct signs, such as high/low resistivities and high/low seismic velocities.