Geophysicists use seismic data to image the subsurface. Seismic data is collected by measuring the reflections of waves created by an explosion or a vibrating plate. The reflections are used to create a map of the subsurface.
As Silixa explains, seismic data can be used to understand the lithology, the geometry of the subsurface, and the properties of the subsurface.
In this article we will be discussing the types of seismic data, how they are used, and what makes them different.
Seismic Reflection
This is a method that provides cross-sectional views of the dip and strike sections. It was first introduced by Canadian scientist Reginald Fessenden in 1917 and has been improved significantly since then. The key benefit of this method is that it makes it possible to map many layers in a single shot. Seismic reflection is carried out in three steps:
- Acquisition of seismic data
- Processing of the seismic data
- Seismic interpretation and attribute analysis
To acquire the data, scientists have to use a controlled source of seismic data to send elastic waves into the ground. This source could be a dynamite explosion. The waves will be reflected partially depending on the nature of the layers of the earth.
The 2D or 3D data collected can then be processed using three different methods. These include deconvolution, common midpoint stacking, and migration.
When it comes to the interpretation and attribute analysis, you will have to create maps of spatial variation in geological layers. The process simply aims at analyzing the impacts of different attributes in the data.
Shear Wave
Shear waves or S-waves have become an essential source of information on subsurface formations. This method is used extensively in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons. The technology has been improved significantly over the years, and now, S-waves can even be produced from P-waves in any place where P-waves can be acquired. It is generally accepted that, in the near future, scientists will not need to use multi-component sensors to get S-waves data. Instead, they will simply need to extract the data from recorded P-wave information. It is worth noting that shear waves have helped with the discovery of oil reserves around the world.
Refraction
This is a geophysical principle that is governed by Snell’s Law of Refraction. With this method, scientists use the refraction of seismic waves by rock and soil layers to characterize the geological structure and conditions of the subsurface. Refraction seismic data gives scientists a deep crustal view of the gross structure, and this helps them understand regional tectonics.
With the refraction method, scientists will analyze the wavelet arrival time, their velocities, and the geophone geometries. This data can be used to determine the general soil types, the depths of the strata boundaries, the water tables, and the upper bedrock surface. Seismic refraction can also be used to estimate the rock characteristics for construction planning.
In-Well Seismic Data Wrap Up
Scientists need to image the subsurface for many purposes, and this can be done by collecting different types of seismic data. These include seismic reflection data, seismic refraction data, and shear wave data.
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