ALBERT

Notes: The decay rate of gamma radiation emitted by a Jamaican mineral spring was measured using portable rate meters. The results of these experiments, supported by auxiliary tests, suggested that the main radioelement causing the radioactivity was radon 222. Fluctuations in the intensity of the radiation were studied in situ. An inverse relation between the intensity and the discharge rate of water was established and the effect of rainfall and of earthquakes was investigated. Some suggestions are made concerning the possible source of radon.

Notes: The iron ores of the Siegerland-district are found in lodes occurring in schists of Lower Devonian age. In the course of the geophysical exploration for these ores, an attempt was also made to clarify the structure and the tectonics of the substratum of the sedimentary rock formations by seismic reflection measurements from the surface. Reflections were recorded in great numbers from layers of Silurian and Devonian age. The form of the folding of the strata derived therefrom corresponds well with that deduced from geological investigations. Beyond that, correlatable reflections were recorded from horizons down to a depth of nearly 25 000 m. It turned out that the iron ore lodes known from the mine workings occur almost vertically above those places where greater dislocations appear in the deepest substratum, and which geologically could be interpreted as fracture zones. The results so far obtained seem to be indicative of the fact that the tectonics of the deepest substratum and the occurrence of ore deposits are related to each other.

Notes: Precision calibration tests carried out with a Worden gravimeter in environment conditions as varied as possible have led to the following conclusions. The secular variation curve of the calibration shows that the secular relative variation has been very appreciable in the first year of life of the instrument, precisely of 1.3 × 10−3 in 13 months, while it has been practically zero in the second year. This must be ascribed to the fact that at the beginning of the operations the gravity-meter had just arrived from the factory with its measuring body renewed.On the other side the effect of 24°C of temperature difference between two series of determinations reveals itself in a variation of 0.0022 of the value of the calibration, so that it can be established that the variation of the calibration is I‰ for each 10°C of temperature variation.

Notes: Due weight must be given to three factors (1) its purpose, (2) the limitations imposed by nature, industry and environment, (3) the effect of errors in auxiliary measurements. Together the last two factors give an estimate of the accuracy which can be achieved. If this is sufficient for the instrument to fulfil its purpose design and construction can proceed. If it is not, a detailed survey of the last two factors is necessary in order to estimate the research effort that will be required when directed into the most effective channels. If the project is considered worth the effort it can proceed. These factors are discussed in relation to a borehole gravimeter. It is shown that the purpose will be served only if the accuracy is comparable with the best surface gravimeters. Borehole versions of some surface instruments are considered and it is concluded that none is suitable without considerable modifications. A successful borehole gravimeter is likely to be a completely new instrument.

Notes: Recently, quite good determinations of interfaces have been made by means of seismic well surveys. These were carried out for various oil companies in Northwest Germany, especially on salt-domes, and in Southern Germany, and in the area of the Upper Rhine Valley. It was the purpose to determine the configuration and position of salt-flanks and important planes of stratification in the neighbourhood of deep wells, and thus to reduce the risk of expensive wells.For the delineation of the boundary surfaces the method described by Gardner in “Geophysics 1949” was applied.The problems arising and the results obtained are discussed in connection with some interesting examples. From them we see, above all, that a knowledge as precise as possible of the seismic velocities of all media involved in the measurement is very important. A good idea of the general stratification in the area of deep wells seismically surveyed will make possible a rational and adequate planning of the survey program and will facilitate the interpretation.

Notes: A method is described in which the major part of gravimetric terrain corrections may be estimated by digital computing methods.

Notes: The electric and magnetic field of a direct-current element, embedded in a space consisting of two halfspaces differing in conductivity and permeability, is given in a form suitable for integration along a cable. From these formulae is obtained the field when one end of a D.C. cable is grounded in a highly conducting, pencilformed ore body, considered as a line electrode with uniform current leakage. Numerical examples are given for a horizontal line electrode. The formulae should be useful as a first approximation to the A.C. case. The validity of this is shortly discussed.

Notes: An analogy is established between the propagation of an electromagnetic field in a horizontally stratified conductive medium and that of currents in a linear electric network. This analogy will allow us to know in which case measurements executed at the surface of the ground can provide information about the properties of deeper layers. The situation is the same as when one tries, by means of impedance measurements at the input terminals, to know the properties of electric lines or lumped networks.A symmetrical linear network establishes between:Voltages V1 and V2 (respectively at input and output terminals)Currents I1 and I2 (respectively at input and output terminals), the relationship 〈displayedItem type="mathematics" xml:id="mu1" numbered="no"〉〈mediaResource alt="image" href="urn:x-wiley:00168025:GPR77:GPR_77_mu1"/〉 is called the “phase constant” and Z the characteristic impedance The table 〈displayedItem type="mathematics" xml:id="mu2" numbered="no"〉〈mediaResource alt="image" href="urn:x-wiley:00168025:GPR77:GPR_77_mu2"/〉 is called “characteristic matrix”If one then takes the horizontal components of an electromagnetic field, one can compare the voltage V with the horizontal electric field E (in volts m-1) and the current I with the horizontal magnetic field H (in Amp m−1)For plane waves in vacuum, one gets (Schelkunoff) Z=C (velocity of light)A layer whose thickness is D has a phase constant⌈= 2 πD/λ (λ= wavelength)For plane waves in a conductive, non magnetic medium whose conductivity is δ, one gets 〈displayedItem type="mathematics" xml:id="mu3" numbered="no"〉〈mediaResource alt="image" href="urn:x-wiley:00168025:GPR77:GPR_77_mu3"/〉 For the system of waves created by a point-source one expresses the solution, since it is classical, as a sum or integral of different modes. For each of these modes, one can still write a bilinear relationship similar to (1), and calculate Z and ⌈.A generalization of this result is given.Boundary conditions that exist at the surfaces of separation are met by writing the continuity of E and H. This condition exactly corresponds to the fact that there one V and one I at the junctions of various sections of lines, or networks.The characteristic matrix of a cascade of networks-or here that of a horizontally stratified ground– is the product of the matrixes of each network. If, in addition, one knows the end impedance–here the conductivity λn of the last layer, supposed to be infinite–one can compute the input impedance Re of the whole system. In electromagnetic prospecting, it is Re that conditions the observable field.Inversely, if measurements were infinitely accurate, the. knowledge of the surface field would give all the thicknesses D and conductivities δ of intermediate layers, in the same way that impedance measurements at the input terminals of a cable would allow to locate any failure. The imperfection of measurements causes the elements located too far away (from the point of view of wave attenuation) to escape detection.

Notes: The attention of everyone has already been drawn to the part which accident reports must play (Geophysical Prospecting, March, 1957, PP- 1 to 8). We intend to show here, with supporting examples, that the systematic analysis of the causes, does allow one to obtain practical conclusions.To begin with, it is advisable to widen the notion of geophysical accident as much as possible. This being done, about 200 reports distributed over a long period and a sufficient number of parties, are dealt with. The collected reports are sufficiently numerous to draw conclusions in a general way bearing on the headings: drilling, transport, outbreaks of fire, explosives, falls, stings, shocks, miscellaneous causes.All the quoted figures are referred to the number of accidents reported. Action must be taken to encourage european geophysicists to study accident reports and to analyse the causes. This may be done in such a way that secret information, such as whereabouts of their personnel, is not disclosed.Efforts to promote “Security” must in the first place bear on the quest for the causes, the definitions of ‘accident’ and of ‘geophysicist’ being taken at their widest possible meaning.

Notes: Seismic model experiments are described in which long strips of plexiglass were used as models. One end of the strip was sawn off at an oblique angle and, at the opposite end, the strip was excited by means of a barium titanate transducer. The experiments showed that, if the width of the strip was sufficiently small, an anomalous reflection against the oblique end occurred which travelled in the longitudinal direction of the strip. This anomalous reflection did not occur when the width of the strip was large. These results are explained on the basis of Fresnel's theory. It is inferred that, in the subsurface, refracted waves may be reflected against fault planes without the law of reflection being satisfied, provided that the refracted wave is propagated in a sufficiently thin high velocity layer.

Notes: Changes of shape of seismic waves provide information on the properties of the material in which the waves propagate. Ricker (1953) has attempted to explain the changes of shape on the basis of a simple viscoelastic theory. His conclusions are at variance with those of others who find a dependence of the attenuation on frequency which could be explained only by a much more complicated linear theory or by nonlinear theories.To provide a basis for discussion, the essentials of the theory of viscoelasticity are briefly reviewed. If a relaxation spectrum, rather than one or very few relaxation times, is admitted, a great variety of experimental results can be described by the linear theory of viscoelasticity. A linear theory is indicated when no obvious violations of the principle of superposition occur.Ricker's theory is presented with some modifications which allow for a finite duration of the initial pulse and for the approximate character of his basic assumptions. There do not appear to be serious discrepancies between his theory and his experimental results. Some of the objections to his theory can be met by assuming a finite duration of the initial pulse. However, more direct measurements made under similar circumstances by McDonal et al. (1958) at the same location lead to a conclusion on the nature of the material not in accordance with Ricker's. This casts doubt on the sensitivity of his method.Laboratory measurements usually yield results which are not explainable in terms of simple viscoelastic models. Whether a linear theory with a relaxation spectrum or a nonlinear theory should apply depends much on the experimental conditions. We must also consider the possibility of nonlinear mechanisms which are active at small amplitudes. No stand is taken in this controversy, but it is pointed out that the question linear or nonlinear could be decided experimentally without considering the details of the theories.

Notes: A method of refraction computing is described which establishes the two points of incidence at the surface of the ray-paths from any point on the refractor when observed from opposing directions. The distance between these points is used to determine the radius and the centre of a circle to which the refractor must be tangential. The matching of forward and reverse data is intrinsic in the method so that the resulting profile is automatically positioned in depth. It is shown that if the effects of dip are neglected, errors are introduced in the derived radius and also in the position of the centre but these errors are shown to cancel each other almost exactly.

Notes: The wells Parentis 10 and 12 which are located on the eastern edge of the Parentis anticline were found to be considerably lower at the top of the reservoir series than had been expected.Unfortunately the village of Parentis is located in this important zone and no more seismic results could be obtained which might help locate faults and give a better picture of the area. To help in our understanding of the area, we attempted to investigate the subsurface conditions surrounding the wells by shooting shaped charges or primacord in the well and recording the returning seismic energy along profiles located on the surface. Thus far, we have used this method in three wells: Parentis 10, Parentis 12 and Lugos 2.With the data given by a velocity survey in each well, time-distance curves have been calculated for several typical possibilities: horizontal layers, dipping layers and the effect of a fault. A comparison of the calculated and experimental curves shows anomalies which correspond to a change of the average velocity along the travel path, which can correspond to geological changes such as: a sudden change of dip, a fault or a thickening of the section.The anomalies have been studied on the different profiles from each well and a possible interpretation of the subsurface conditions has been given. The directions of the major accidents determined by this method are in general agreement with those found by the regular seismic shooting.

Notes: The directional sensitivities of an array of geophones depend as much on the size of the array as on the directional sensitivities of the single geophones forming the array. In a former paper (Celminš 1956) the effect of the size of the array was investigated. In addition to this the influence of the directional sensitivities of the individual geophones on the sensitivities of an array of geophones is investigated here.In δ 2 some general formulae for the directional sensitivities are derived. In addition the directional sensitivities of a single geophone according to P- and S-waves are investigated (δ3 and δ4). In δ5 the'directional sensitivities for the most important cases of arrays of parallel geophones are computed. The results of the computation (shown in fig. 4 and 5) give an idea of the types of directional sensitivities which occur in the use of geophone arrays.

Notes: Non-explosive seismic sources, notably the falling weight and the eccentric machine, have occasionally proved advantageous in experimental and practical seismology in spite of their relative feebleness.Another alternative is the pulsed vibrator, which offers the advantage of a completely controllable waveform. Recent theory shows that such a source is quite well adapted to the radiation of high frequency waves from the surface of the ground; it is estimated, for example, that in typical circumstances reflections should be obtainable from depths of the order of 200 metres. The theory also shows how resonances may be avoided so as to radiate the impulsive waveform unimpaired.

Notes: Book review in this articleGedenkboek F. A. Veiling Meinesz, Verhandelingen van het Koninklijk Nederlandsch Geologisch-Mijnbouwkundig Genootschap, Geologische Serie, Vol. XVIII, May, 1957.

Notes: A brief description of the procedure usually adopted for ascertaining the accuracy o aeromagnetic data is given as a background to the discussion of factors which affect this accuracy. These factors fall mainly into two groups: spatial positioning, i.e. relation to the ground surface, and effects contributing to the observed relative magnetic values. The evaluation of the observed anomalies in terms of the most probable causes and the anomalies themselves are directly influenced by the amount of the available control of factors mentioned above. The effects of various factors, such as plan positioning, height keeping, diurnal drift, are discussed, the arguments being based on theoretical and practical premises.

Notes: The effect of the composition of the tank walls on apparent resistivity determinations made in model experiments has been investigated for the two extreme cases of an insulating and a perfectly conducting tank wall: The resulting errors have been determined both by calculation and by experiment.Experiments are described which demonstrate that the magnitude of the effect can be considerably reduced by specially constructed tank walls.

Notes: Amplitude measurements have been made of the height of the first peak of an arrival refracted from a shallow refractor. If the amplitude is assumed to decay as the inverse mth power of the distance, the least squares value for m is found to be 2.16 ± .04. Because of this value and because of the character of the recorded event it is concluded that the arrival is a simple critical refraction. After applying the theoretical ‘spread’ factor for critical refraction there remains a residual attenuation of 1.96 ± 0.28 decibels per 1000 feet. The predominant frequency in the pulse is about 20 c.p.s. and this attenuation agrees with the losses found for such a frequency by extrapolation of the published results of other workers. Although no evidence could be seen on the records for a change of pulse frequency with distance, the quoted result would be consistent with a dependence of residual attenuation on the first power of the frequency, and would be inconsistent with a dependence on the second power of the frequency.It is concluded that studies of the amplitudes of refracted events will give useful estimates of the attenuation factors of rocks.

Notes: A method of constructing depth contour maps of arbitrarily curved horizons obtained from seismic reflection surveys is discussed. This method takes into account three dimensional refraction, avoiding the construction of seismic cross sections of any kind. It requires little work even if refraction at several horizons is taken into account. The multiple layer problem is traced back to the single layer case. Discontinuities in velocity are also taken into account.

Notes: 1. A Worden gravity meter has been tested for sinusoidal variations in the external temperature, by determining simultaneously the corresponding variations of temperature inside the Dewar vacuum bottle, and the variations in the readings.A second Worden gravimeter has been tested for rapid variations in external pressure.

Notes: The results of field and laboratory methods of density determination on a series of Coal Measure, Permian and Triassic rooks are presented and the different methods compared. It is concluded that the most satisfactory method is that of measuring the vertical change of gravity in a mine shaft. Nettleton's method is unsatisfactory to us, due to weathering of the rocks (particularly Magnesian Limestone) and possible effects from drift. Laboratory measurements are of variable value depending on the lithology and source of the samples.A method adopted to solve the problem of finding the true densities for use in a local gravity survey in N.E. England is given.

Notes: The iron ores of the Siegerland district are found in lodes occurring in schists of Lower Devonian age. These lodes, normally dipping almost perpendicularly, could be traced only by seismic reflection measurements underground, up to distances of approximately 500 m. The geophones were attached to the walls of the galleries. The frequencies of the recorded longitudinal and transverse waves ranged from 200 to 500 c.p.s. By this method a new siderite lode was discovered.

Notes: Book Reviewed in this article:Lehrbuch der angewandten Geophysik, Teil II, H. Haalck.

Notes: A series of repeat observations during a period of 5 years reveal a variation with time of the Worden gravimeter No. 142 small dial spring system. A possible change in the gravity difference concerned is ruled out. It is shown that the small dial scale factor has diminished by about 0.25 % within the last two years against about 0.5 % four to five years ago. The ratio of L.D. to S.D. has been analysed and the results obtained show confirmation of the change in the small dial system and prove a consistency in the large dial system.

Notes: A study is made of the possibility of calculating electric potentials, and therefore of interpreting apparent resistivity measurements, when the ground presents structural conditions more complicated than plane, parallel stratification.For this work a schematic type of structure has been chosen, in which the discontinuity planes for electric resistivity are both parallel and perpendicular to the level of the ground.The problem has been examinated in its general aspect, and then some criteria for the numerical calculation have been indicated.Some calculated examples are presented, relevant to vertical electric soundings accomplished by conventional technique, for particular types of structure.

Notes: The elastic impulse-from an explosion is propagated through the earth as an expanding shell bounded by the wavefront. This wavefront and its motion are a physical reality while rays or trajectories are much less sharply defined and cannot actually be observed because the wavelengths involved in seismic processes are too long. This means that the visualization and the interpretation of seismic processes can be carried out in a more satisfactory, simple and comprehensible way with wavefronts than with rays.H. R. Thornburgh (1930) introduced the very lucid and simple method of interpreting seismic refraction sections, using Huygen's principle to construct wavefronts from two symmetrical shotpoints by working back from their observed arrival times at the surface. The depths are found first with only a knowledge of the velocities down to the refractor and after that the velocities in the refractor can be determined.The pattern of the two wavefronts at equal time intervals, obtained when carrying out Thornburgh's construction, leads to the very simple, approximative “Plus-Minus” method. The additions of the travel times from two symmetrical shotpoints to-each geophone give the relative depths and their subtractions give the velocities of the refractor. The method extrapolates exact quantities from the refractor boundary up to the surface by the “Plus”- and “Minus” lines. This extrapolation introduces errors that can, more or less, be corrected for. A number of hypothetical cases are presented to give an insight into the applicability and reliability of the “Plus-Minus” method. Its main applications are for fairly shallow refraction investigations and for determining weathering corrections for refraction and reflection work.

Notes: Major savings for operators of seismic parties have been achieved by the use of prilled ammonium nitrate as a substitute for gelatin dynamite in areas where shot holes are dry. Pound for pound, the prills appear to have the same energy yield as 60% gelatin dynamite, and some improvement of records has been noted where prills are used. Safety problems are less with ammonium nitrate than with dynamite, and the development of efficient field handling techniques prevents the loss of production.

Notes: Some mathematical inequalities are proved and their relevance to the interpretation of local magnetic and gravity anomalies is discussed. They can be applied to the readings of either a vertical magnetometer or a total field magnetometer or a gravimeter and yield a maximum possible value for the depth below the earth's surface of the top surface of the body producing the anomaly.

Notes: In order to eliminate the effect of smoothing due to the use of a finite number of grid points, the second derivative is computed by integrating the product of g with a convenient continuous function, which yields the second derivative to the extent to which the first terms of the Taylor expansion of g represent its value correctly. By applying this method to the anomaly caused by an isolated mass, and to that caused by a homogeneous half plane, it is shown that, if the result obtained is interpreted as if it really were a second derivative, erroneous values for the depth and the mass are obtained. If the real depth of the mass is small, a too large apparent depth is obtained. In the case of a half plane the use of a system of grid points gives the same result. These considerations permit the rational choice of the method of computing the second derivative, such that the effects of too shallow mass irregularities are attenuated.

Notes: From gamma ray absorption the density of soil to a depth of i m. can be determined in situ, without taking samples, by a method which has been described in a previous paper (Wendt 1954) and which has been checked with satisfactory results (mean error about 1%). A nearly vertical steel rod with a gamma ray source at its lower end is pushed into the ground, and the gamma radiation is measured at the surface with two counters placed symmetrically with respect to the rod.As a first step in interpreting the observed effects, the assumption had been made that counters are infinitesimally small. This paper shows how a theory can be developed without this assumption, the finite dimensions of the counters being taken into account by an integral expression. For this purpose a determination of the dependence of the counting rate on the angle of incidence of the gamma rays is required. A comparison of the experimental results with the theoretical ones demonstrates that the integral expression is correct.The influence of deviations from the normal geometry of the arrangement (e.g. caused by bending of the probe) on the results is investigated, as well as the influence of variations of the density with depth.The treatment of the basic problems has been carried through in such a manner that the results obtained can be applied to other absorption methods as well.

Notes: In this paper an attempt has been made to evaluate the possibilities of determining subsurface features from temperature measurements made at shallow depths. The temperatures at the observation depth used are subject to seasonable variations. The amount of this variation differs, and these differences have been attributed to structural features. Local differences in temperature are also caused by surface factors such as the thermal conductivity of the soil, the vegetation and the micro-climate. The differences in temperature due to surface factors are so great that the variation in heat flow caused by differing thermal conductivities of the rocks at depth cannot be detected at the surface. It is not possible therefore to use this method to determine the position of subsurface structures such as domes, anticlines or horsts.It is also shown that concentrations of radioactive elements in the rocks do not provide any measurable heating.The method has been successfully applied to the problem of finding fissures, cracks and similar features provided that convective heat transport from depth to the surface has taken place along these features. In order to compute the area through which a given amount of water at a given depth must pass to give a specific temperature increase a model has been considered. From the shape of the temperature anomaly above a fissure carrying such heated water, the places at which the rising water enters the groundwater stream can be seen immediately. It is possible to estimate the amount of rising water by computing the amount of heat energy transferred to the surface.The method is particularly suitable for determining the position of steam deposits in regions of recent vulcanicity. In such a region a location, hitherto unknown, was found where steam rising from depth condenses beneath the surface.The area and form of the anomaly indicate the extent in depth of this steam bearing zone. By means of observations made at the individual points, it was also possible to compute approximately the energy being released at the surface. This value can give an indication of the extent to which the steam deposits regenerate themselves.Finally it has been shown that percolating canal water can be detected thermally near the canal banks. Such anomalies are dependent on the season.

Notes: The following assumptions are made in the mathematical treatment of the problem. Below a plane earth's surface there is a three-layered elastic medium the interfaces of which are parallel to the earth's surface. The uppermost layer represents the weathered layer in which the velocity of propagation of seismic waves increases linearly with depth. The two lower layers, the so-called intermediate layer and the substratum each have a constant velocity. The surface of the earth is acted on simultaneously by a normal pressure N in the form of a Heaviside pulse. The seismic wave thus generated is propagated through the elastic media.The aim of the investigation is to study the shape of the wave1) in the intermediate layer, after the wave has entered it the first time2) at the earth's surface, after the wave has been reflected once at the interface between the intermediate layer and the substratum.The mathematical solutions can in both cases be expressed as series of Bessel functions. Some numerical examples illustrate the quasi-periodic nature of the solutions. The pseudo-frequency is determined by the gradient of velocity in the uppermost layer; it assumes a value of approximately 50 c.p.s. for a gradient of appr.〈inlineGraphic alt="inline image" href="urn:x-wiley:00168025:GPR328:GPR_328_mu1" location="equation/GPR_328_mu1.gif"/〉

Notes: The President of the E.A.E.G. Safety Committee has stated that European geophysicists fail to attach sufficient importance to accident statistics. Nevertheless these statistics are the best means at our disposal for the study of the factors influencing the number and severity of accidents.It appears essential that two points should be stressed, firstly that the accident reports must be completed correctly, and secondly that the interpretation of each report and of the statistical data must be done systematically.If these conditions are fulfilled it should be possible to create, at all levels, a technical and psychological atmosphere which would do much to protect geophysicists against accidents.

Notes: The paper discusses the variations of Elevation Correction Factors (E.C.F.) across various stratigraphical and structural occurrences with particular reference to the dipping bed, fault and horst. Graphs are prepared giving E.C.F. variations for various angles of dip and a method is suggested for application in the field. Errors in the linear variation that is commonly used for small angles of dip are discussed.The second part of the paper consists of the application to interpretation of (I) Change of gravity dip and (2) The gravity inversion. It is shown how from a gravity map the dip, position of outcrop and thickness of a dipping bed can be determined. The last part shows how anticlines can give rise to negative anomalies and that in the direction of dip similar structures can at one point have no surface expression and afterwards invert to positive anomalies. The danger of attempting to predict the size of structures in such areas is emphasised.

Notes: When gravimetric prospecting is concerned with a region featuring broken relief the calculation of topographical corrections becomes vitally important, for these rectify apparent anomalies completely. It is essential that they should be calculated as exactly as possible. By the classic method this takes an extremely long time and may in the long run involve an outlay actually higher than that expended on operations on the terrain.It has thus been felt necessary to seek methods which would speed up calculation, and, bearing that in mind, the use of a polar integrator has been envisaged. With this the contour lines of a map can be followed between two fixed radii, the pole corresponding to the location of the position. Two integrator roulettes will give the values of the first two terms of the expansion in terms of the quotient of the height divided by the distance, the second of the terms resulting from the curvature of the earth. Unless there are escarpments very close to the position, the use of these two terms will be sufficient.Polar integration will deal successively with different contour lines and a subsidiary graph will be plotted, giving the value of each of the integrals in terms of the height. By means of this subsidiary graph the values of the corrections will be obtained with a planimeter and a moment integrator. It is envisaged that the same operation could be repeated in the case of two maps with different scales, for instance, 1–20,000 and 1–200,000 the effect of the areas in the immediate neighbourhood of the position being taken into account by the observer. It is hoped that in this way the calculation of topographical corrections will be made quicker, more exact and less laborious.

Notes: The problems connected with reflexion surveys in areas of rough topography consist of choosing proper equipment and of making careful near-surface corrections. This paper illustrates some solutions to these problems that have been adopted in a survey which has recently started in a hily coastal area, in Southern Italy.As the area is characterized by a youthful and very actively eroded topography of Post-Miocene clays and litoral clastic sediments, both rotary and percussion drilling were necessary whilst all the seismic equipment had to be light to allow straight lines to be shot as far as possible. Details are given of the truckmounted, light equipment which has been designed for this special purpose.In connection with the youthful topography of the area being surveyed, the criteria for the proper computation of the near-surface corrections is discussed. The great differences in elevation, combined with variations in the surface and near-surface materials, necessitated a careful analysis before deciding the thickness of the correction zone. The results are shown of the preliminary tests carried out in order to determine the average thickness of the low-velocity zone. The solution adopted for drawing the reference surface determining the base of the correction zone for the whole of the area is subseqently explained.Reference datum is drawn so as to follow gently, and with segments of constant slopes, the general features of the rough topographic relief at a depth ranging from 30 to 60 metres from the surface. Criteria for the routine checking of velocity variations in the correction zone are illustrated. Such checks are based on both uphole time analyses and refraction “first breaks” plots, with deeper shot holes at constant intervals.Unsatisfactory results necessitate longer spreads for “low velocity tests” and uphole shooting from deeper holes and the reference datum is deepened for the particular area where this becomes necessary.The final cross-sections are shown and although, as yet, no deep holes, are available to check the seismic data, the general appearance of the cross-sections seems to indicate that subsurface data are free from the influence of topography and of the velocities in the near-surface formations.

Notes: The paper describes the determination of the chlorine content of deep ground water by means of the direct resistivity method using the Wenner electrode configuration. The purpose was to investigate the distribution of salinity in the brackish waters within a permeable sand of thickness 250 metres and which forms the deeper subsoil of the Ysselmeer areas.Such a knowledge is of great value, firstly because the seepage of salt water into the proposed deep “polders” may reduce the crop yield, and secondly because it allows areas, where potable waters may occur, to be delineated.To test the method, measurements were made near existing boreholes which extended to a depth of 350 metres. From these borings water samples from various depths were collected and it was found that the resistivity pl of the porewater was closely related to their chlorine content. The resistivity p of the saturated sand was determined from the geo-electrical measurements. It was found that the resistivity p was given by p= 4, 5 pl. From this relation, which is independent of the salinity, the chlorine content of the porewater could be estimated. These results are in close agreement with those of other observers. In the area p varied from 1 to 200 ohmmetres corresponding to a chlorine content changing from 12.000 to 15 mg per litre.The method was adapted for working over water. Each of fourteen insulated conductors in a special cable terminated in an electrode, and these electrodes were spaced along the cable so that nine different Wenner spacings could be selected. The electrode separations varied from 44 metres up to 306 metres.

Notes: The authors develop an optimum filtering theory for seismic reflection recording. A criterion of record improvement is applied to a mathematical model consisting of a set of wavelets superimposed on a random noise backgruond. This leads to the design of electrical filters and geophone and shot-hole patterns with optimum filtering characteristics.

Notes: For horizontal layering and plane horizontal impulsive wavefronts it is theoretically possible to get rid of multiple reflections by a feedback procedure which can easily be derived using raypath philosophy. To reduce the increase of noise inherent in the method the precise theoretical formulae are altered in such a manner that a practical application becomes possible. For this purpose the autocorrelation will be used.Application of the new process to a CRP section where the shot geophone distances in the field had not been long enough to attenuate multiple reflections effectively gave favourable results.

Notes: Two in situ measurements of stress wave velocity in a granodiorite massif were made. Firstly, the velocities close to the source were investigated (for elimination of the influence of cracks), and secondly, the velocities in different horizontal directions over a large area were studied from the viewpoint of their dependence on the crack system of the medium. A correlation between the mutual orientation of the cracks and the maximum or minimum values of the stress wave velocities was obtained.

Notes: The technique of linear digital filtering as developed for the direct interpretation of Schlumberger and Wenner soundings (Ghosh 1971) has been applied here for the derivation of the resistivity transform function from the field dipole measurements as the first step in directly interpreting dipole data. Filter coefficients for this transformation have been worked out for the radial-polar, perpendicular and parallel (30°) arrays of dipole sounding. The procedure combines speed with accuracy.

Notes: Dipole soundings are more sensitive to noise caused by lateral and superficial inhomogeneities than Schlumberger soundings. However, the former are preferable for deep explorations in view of the relatively short cables required. The simple solution of carrying out the field work by means of dipole spreads, and to transform the dipole resistivity diagrams into Schlumberger ones by means of proper formulae would be valid only for smooth and regular curves; but often, owing to the presence of lateral noises, the dipole data show a considerable scatter. For such cases a “continuous dipole sounding” method is proposed for which all successive dipoles are contiguous, so that all parts of the profiles are covered and interpolation is not necessary. Obviously the moving dipoles have lengths proportional to their distances, so that they appear equal in the usual bilogarithmic scale. It follows that only polar-dipole arrays may be used. The transition from a dipole to the corresponding Schlumberger apparent resistivity diagram requires an integration constant which is not unequivocally determined. Therefore, the solution is not unique, but all possible derived Schlumberger diagrams have a common part. Similarly, they have some common interpretative results, which may be referred to the original dipole diagram obtained in the field.A special measurement technique is required since the dipole-dipole voltages to be determined are noticeably smaller than the Schlumberger ones. This is true also because dipole soundings are used for great depths and for long distances between the two dipoles.

Notes: Basic requirements for a seismic reflection system using a moderate-power controlled source are discussed. General considerations and computer modelling show promise for geophysical prospecting, especially at low penetration and very high noise level. For many applications, ranging from mineral and water prospecting, to civil and military engineering, and even archeology, a relatively cheap, small and portable device of this kind might be more convenient than conventional explosive sources or sophisticated controlled sources of the vibroseis type. The use of a simple, low frequency periodic signal facilitates rapid data processing procedures and suggests that the mechanical generator will be very simple and cheap.

Notes: A method is described to transform a dipole sounding curve, obtained with any one of the common dipole arrays over a horizontally layered earth, to the form of a Schlumberger sounding curve. Starting from the general expression which relates the dipole apparent resistivity to the Schlumberger apparent resistivity and its derivative with respect to the spacing, it is possible with some approximations to derive an easy numerical computation procedure in order to perform the transformation. The applicability of the method is discussed briefly.

Notes: Approximate deconvolution by means of Wiener filters has become standard practice in seismic data-processing. It is well-known that addition of a certain percentage of noise energy to the autocorrelation of the signal wavelet leads to a filter that does not increase, or even reduces, the noise level on the seismogram. This noise addition will, in general, cause a minimum phase signal to become mixed phase. A technique is presented for the calculation of the optimum-lag shaping filter for a contaminated signal wavelet. The advantages of this method over the more conventional approach are that it needs less arithmetic operations and that it automatically gives the filter with the optimum combination of shaping performance and noise reduction.

Notes: A set of parabolae is defined to approximate the observed gravity profile for specifying the lateral density variation in a two dimensional causative body. This variation separates the “biased” as well as “unbiased” residual anomaly structure. The method may be directly incorporated into existing numerical and graphical techniques of interpretation for subsequent delineation of structural configuration. The simple relations derived by inspection of the observed gravity profile permit universal application of the technique and in particular for the determination of the size and shape of sub-shelf structures. The suitability of the method in various problems of two dimensional interpretation has been indicated through an illustration of the Godavari Basin (India).

Notes: Decomposition of IP discharge curve into a sum of exponentials yields more information than present practice does. Such a work was performed, as a beginning, by hand, plotting the ordinates on semi logarithimic paper. It gave, according to the cases, two or three exponentials, each with an amplitude Ai and the time constant τi.Three examples of ground prospection are given, the third of which shows an anomaly, unnoticed with present technique but obvious on a profile curve with A1/A2 in ordinates.A computer processing technique is described which yields directly the time constants τi by seeking a differential equation which the IP voltage satisfies; the order of the equation is set arbitrarily. On a practical prospection record with only two exponentials, the assumption that the differential equation does not depend on charge duration (everything else being equal) has been checked (the shape of the curves would depend on boundary conditions). The assumption roughly holds for charge durations from 5 seconds to 40 seconds. We hope that a larger number of exponentials will yield better results.〈section xml:id="abs1-2"〉〈title type="main"〉SommaireLa décomposition de la courbe de décharge en une somme d'exponentielles permet d'en tirer plus d'information que la pratique actuelle. Un tel travail a été fait, pour commencer, à la main en portant les ordonnées sur papier logarithmique; il a fourni, suivant les cas, deux ou trois exponentielles avec, pour chacune d'elles, le coefficient Ai et la constante de temps τi.On donne trois exemples de prospection sur le terrain, dont le dernier comporte une anomalie, inaperçue avec la technique actuelle, mais bien mise en évidence en traçant la courbe de A1/A2 le long du profil.On donne ensuite une technique de calcul sur ordinateur des τi, en recherchant l'équation différentielle à laquelle obéit la tension ΔVPP enregistrée, l'ordre de cette équation étant fixé arbitrairement. On a cherchéà vérifier sur un enregistrement de terrain, avec. deux exponentielles seulement, l'hypothèse suivant laquelle l'équation différentielle ne dépend pas de la durée de charge (toutes choses égales d'ailleurs). L'hypothèse se trouve grossièrement vérifiée pour les durées de charge allant de 5 secondes à 40 secondes, et nous espérons qu'un plus grand nombre d'exponentielles donnera de meilleurs résultats.

Notes: The conventional seismic technique is subject to a recording time following each transmission of energy, in which it is forbidden to release any new pulse. The recording time depends on the deepest reflection of interest, and is often 10 seconds or more in actual practice. To each transmission corresponds one record, i.e. a fixed amount of data which cannot be increased in a given time.Pulse coding allows us to go beyond this limit, by transmitting several times during the normal recording time. The procedure gives as many records as there are pulses, but they overlap, each event being repeated every time there is a pulse. It is possible to process the composite record back to its usual appearance with all events in their proper place if the time breaks are accurately known and make up a code such that the unavoidable noise generated by the process be kept, on the final section, below the ambient noise. The processing is quite similar to that of records made from vibrating sources, though faster in practice.The additional information can be devoted to a saving of time and money as the same profile may be recorded in a shorter time; or to an improvement of quality of the section due to a higher order of coverage, a multiplication of the ray paths and a closer sampling of the reflectors. It is also possible to record information in several planes at the same time, and to work out a 3-dimensional restitution, without loss of production.The process applies to all kinds of sources provided they can be triggered according to the code with sufficient accuracy. Depending on the source and conditions of implementation, the method benefits from other advantages such as better resolution, increased flexibility, and better coupling.Two different names have been given to the process, Sosie and Seiscode, which apply to slightly different parameters for the sequence of pulses. Sosie is more useful at sea, while the normal scope for Seiscode is onshore. Both names are trademarks for SNPA.

Notes: Master diagrams for electromagnetic responses of nine dipole dipole systems are presented for various depths of a vertical infinitely conducting vein. The YY system gives the minimum anomaly for both the inline and broadside arrays. Among other inline systems, it is difficult to decide the clearcut superiority of one system over the other, whereas the XX system in broadside array gives maximum anomaly.

Notes: The interpretation of Turam data is treated by means of a development of the conventional approach to this type of data. The development consists of a curve matching technique based upon a line current approximation to the true induced current pattern.The technique requires computation facilities which are readily available in modern programmable calculators.Practical examples of the use of the method illustrate that it can reveal information concerning the geometry of a conducting body which would not be gained by the conventional approach.

Notes: Two-layer type curves of apparent frequency effect for the Wenner configuration are presented. The formulation is based on the normal definition of frequency effect in terms of resistivities measured at different frequencies plus the definition of apparent resistivity over two horizontal layers as a function of first and second layer resistivities. The use of these type curves in the interpretation of multilayer apparent frequency-effect curves is described and some field examples are given.

Notes: In this paper properties of the discrete zero-phase time function are derived and compared with related properties of the discrete minimum-phase time function.The two-sided minimum-length signal is introduced and it is derived that, for any given amplitude spectrum, the two-sided minimum-length signal and the signal with zero-phase spectrum are identical signals. A comparison is made between the one-sided minimum-length signal (minimum-phase signal) and the two-sided minimum-length signal (zero-phase signal).A computational scheme is discussed which determines the zero-phase correspondent of a given signal.A method is proposed to compute zero-phase least-square inverse filters. The efficiency of minimum-phase and zero-phase least-square inverse filters is shown on signals with different phase properties.A criterion is derived which determines whether a symmetric time function has the zero-phase property. The close relationship with the minimum-phase criterion is discussed.Finally the relationship between signal length and resolving power is illustrated on numerical examples.

Notes: Empirical equalities derived from time domain induced polarization scale modelling with the gradient array over simple geometries, and from the potential field functions for equivalent simple charge configurations are similar. The function for the dyke like body is analogous to the magnetic case allowing both total and vertical magnetic field interpretation techniques to be applied to gradient array chargeability anomalies.

Notes: “Remote sensing” techniques have been used for many years as an exploration tool; broadly speaking, any method using sensors not directly connected to the earth's surface falls into this group.It is preferable, however, to use the term solely with reference to a number of new sensors which have recently become available to earth scientists for the detection of various radiations of the electromagnetic spectrum in the wave length range from 0.1 micron (UV) to some centimeters including the visible and infrared regions.Radiations artificially induced in the earth (active sensing) or spontaneous radiations (passive sensing) can be detected. Some of the bands investigated seem promising for application to geological surveys, especially using sensors on aircraft and satellites, which allow synoptic and large scale investigations.A brief account is given of the results already achieved and of future developments such as the ERTS and manned satellite (post Apollo) “earth observation” programmes.The potential role of Europe in the field is discussed.Details are given of some applications of thermal I.R. imagery to geological and vulcanological problems, with special emphasis on the research carried out in Italy.

Notes: A simple calculation procedure that gives the equilibrium temperature in geothermal measurements reduces the reading time in field work from reported 60 minutes to about 10 minutes.

Notes: Boundary-value problems in steady-state current flow were solved numerically in bispherical coordinates for a sphere of arbitrary conductivity in a half-space. Solutions for the potential on the surface of the half-space were examined for the cases where both current sources were on the surface, one source on the surface and the second between the surface and the sphere, and one source on the surface and the other in the sphere. Results show a great similarity with the layered case when the buried electrode is placed between the surface and the conducting region. Such a buried electrode configuration makes it possible to obtain an accurate measurement of the depth to the conductor in both cases. A model with the current electrode placed in a conductive sphere is compared with a three-layered model with the source in a conductive intermediate layer, and results indicate that the lateral extent of a finite anomalous zone can be estimated using these limiting curves. The validity of these theoretical calculations for buried spheres was confirmed experimentally by tests conducted on an analog model.

Notes: A checking method of digital multiple elimination and of deconvolution processing using computers and based on optical autocorrelation is first presented. Comparison between autocorrelograms before and after a single or several processing steps allows to estimate, on one hand, the strength of the deconvolution obtained, known by the study of the central parts which is in fact the signal autocorrelation, on the other hand, the multiple elimination given by the study of side parts of the autocorrelogram.Further, an optical deconvolution procedure, is presented. For this, it is supposed that the signal is known and optically reproduced in the same way as the one of a trace. This is achieved by sphero-cylindrical optics allowing trace to trace processing. Deconvolution is carried out in the spectral domain by inserting a filter in the Fourier plane of the optical unit, the transmission law of which expresses the Fourier transform of the antisignal. This filter device introduces a holographic technique called Fourier holography, in such a way phases as well as amplitudes are preserved.Several results are presented from a synthetic section and also from field sections.

Notes: The separation of regional from local gravity anomalies by means of the application of two-dimensional linear filters is analyzed. It was found that optimization of the filter in the least squares sense leads to filters that produce strong localized concentrations of the error, which may erroneously be interpreted as anomalies. For this reason the maximum absolute value of the error is a more important criterion for the quality of the filter than the root mean square error. This maximum absolute error is minimized by the minimax filter. Intermediate filters are derived which give a transition zone which comes appreciably closer to that of the optimal filter at only a small price in terms of increase of the maximum absolute error.

Notes: The Laboratory of Geophysics of the University of Arizona was presented with an exploration problem by Falconbridge, Ltd. of Canada. Massive mineralized hemispherical “pods” are in the vicinity of a tuff layer of high conductivity and induced polarization response, covered by large thicknesses of resistive volcanics. The initial approach was to utilize electrolytic tank modeling. The extreme resistivity and IP contrasts proved to be difficult to recreate. Two dimensional modeling was attempted next with conductive paper, using copper and silver paint for anomalous masses. This method also proved inadequate. Finally, mathematical equations were solved which could model any arbitrary anomalous body in any steady state electrical field. Plane waves as well as point current sources producing non-plane waves are possible. Finite difference equations were derived for the non-linear partial differential equations under consideration. The equations were solved using a digital computer. Initially, the boundary conditions had to be satisfied at the boundaries of resistivity changes, severely restricting possible geometric shapes for anomalous bodies. The final and successful solution was to apply numerical techniques to obtain solutions of equations which require only that the relative resistivities through the area be specified. The Falconbridge problem and its solution are analyzed.

Notes: For the two and three layer cases geo-electrical sounding graphs can be rapidly and accurately evaluated by comparing them with an adequate set of standard model graphs. The variety of model graphs required is reasonably limited and the use of a computer is unnecessary for this type of interpretation.For more than three layers a compilation of model graphs is not possible, because the variety of curves required in practice increases immensely. To evaluate a measured graph under these conditions, a model graph is calculated by computer for an approximately calculated resistivity profile which is determined, for example, by means of the auxiliary point methods. This model graph is then compared with the measured curve, and from the deviation between the curves a new resistivity profile is derived, the model graph of which is calculated for another comparison procedure, etc. This type of interpretation, although exact, is very inconvenient and time-consuming, because there is no simple method by which an improved resistivity profile can be derived from the deviations between a model graph and a measured graph.The aim of this paper is, on the one hand, to give a simple interpretation method, suitable for use during field work, for multi-layer geo-electrical sounding graphs, and, on the other hand, to indicate an automatic evaluation procedure based on these principles, suitable for use by digital computer.This interpretation system is based on the resolution of the kernel function of Stefanescu's integral into partial fractions. The system consists of a calculation method for an arbitrary multi-layer case and a highly accurate approximation method for determining those partial fractions which are important for interpretation. The partial fractions are found by fitting three-layer graphs to a measured curve. Using the roots and coefficients of these partial fractions and simple equations derived from the kernel function of Stefanescu's integral, the thicknesses and resistivities of layers may be directly calculated for successively increasing depths.The system also provides a simple method for the approximative construction of model graphs.

Notes: The theoretical horizontal resistivity profiles over an outcropping vertical dyke for various parameters-electrode spacing, vein-width and resistivity contrast—with inline alpha, beta and gamma-Wenner electrode systems are described. The resistivity profiles present a most bewildering variety of shapes as compared to those in resistivity soundings. The analysis of type curves suggests suitable electrode configuration for detection of wide, moderately wide, and thin veins. The negative apparent resistivity values on the gamma anomalies for resistive vein over certain vein-widths of higher positive values of resistivity reflection factor contradict the concept of apparent resistivity hitherto held.

Notes: Il est maintenant courant d'employer l'ordinateur pour interpréter les sondages électriques. Cependant, le problème à résoudre en prospection électrique n'admettant pas une solution unique, le but des traitements automatiques consiste simplement à fournir plusieurs hypothèses qui aident à bâtir une interprétation géologique des mesures géophysiques. C'est, d'ailleurs, ce qu'on recherche aussi par la comparaison visuelle des courbes de terrain avec des abaques précalculés. Mais, tandis que l'interprétation manuelle, pour conduire à des solutions qui respectent les mesures faites sur le terrain, exige un temps très long, le traitement automatique fournit immédiatement des solutions compatibles avec les courbes àétudier.Les procédés employés s'adaptent aux divers besoins de la prospection: ils peuvent traiter aussi bien la station isolée que les profils de sondages électriques. C'est ce qu'on se propose de montrer, à l'aide de quelques exemples tirés d'études récentes.

Notes: Various experiments are described in designing two-dimensional magnetic interpretation algorithms using computer curve fitting techniques.For a single anomaly the position of the anomaly maximum and the half-width of the anomaly give good initial estimates of the plate position and thickness. A nomogram and formulae for improving these estimates is given. Curves and estimates for the effects of finite depth extent of a plate show the limits, when the lower surface of the plate can be neglected in curve fitting.The combined anomaly of two parallel plates can be separated into partial anomalies with no common points using the horizontal derivative of the anomaly. The changes of the anomaly maxima and changes in anomaly half-widths are studied as a function of plate separation. The position of the maxima and the half-widths can be corrected before applying the one-plate procedure for obtaining initial estimates of plate positions and thicknesses.The performance of standard optimization methods of Powell, Davidon, and Marquardt in improving the values of the plate parameters are compared. The Powell method seems to be the most reliable for both single and multi-plate anomalies. All methods become unacceptably slow when the number of plates is greater than 2 or 3. In these cases feasible interpretation times are obtained using the partial anomalies and sequential parabolic search of the parameter values as tailored specially to the thick plate model.Experiments with three different error norms, the classical least squares, weighted least squares and minimax, show that the first norm gives the best overall performance in automatic interpretation. The behaviour of the classical least squares norm as a function of the plate parameters is also briefly described.

Notes: The growing awareness of the significance of three-dimensional interpretation of seismic reflection data carries with it a need for better understanding of the role of the velocity configuration in the production of reflection patterns. Modeling the reflection responses of a simple dipping plane reflector through velocity models of various degrees of complexity demonstrates the importance of overlying velocities in determining the reflection pattern.Modeling is accomplished using a raytracing technique which determines total travel time of the normal incidence raypath through an arbitrary iso-velocity layer model.

Notes: In a previous paper it has been shown that we can relate the transient IP electric field Ep, existing in a rock after a step wave of polarizing current, with the steady-state current density Jss during the current step wave as follows: Ep=ρ'Jss.This relation may be interpreted as a generalized Ohm's law, valid in linear cases, in which ρ’(fictitious resistivity) is defined as the product of the true resistivity ρ with the chargeability m.Supposing Ep=—grad Up and applying the divergence condition div Jss= o, one can, for a layered earth, obtain a general expression for the depolarization potential Up as a solution of Laplace's equation ∇2Up= o.Since the mathematical procedure for the solution of this last equation is identical to that used in resistivity problems, we propose now the introduction of an apparent fictitious resistivity ρ'a (defined as the product of the apparent resistivity ρa with the apparent chargeability ma) as a new parameter for the interpretations of IP soundings carried out over layered structures with a common electrode array.The most general expression of ρ'a as a function of the electrode distance turns out to be mathematically identical to the general expression of ρ'a. Therefore it is possible to interpret a ρ'a field curve using the same standard graphs for resistivity prospecting with the usual method of complete curve matching.In this manner a great deal of work is saved since there is no need to construct proper ma graphs for the interpretation of IP soundings, as it has been done up to now.Finally some field examples are reported.

Notes: Dipole sounding resistivity measurements over layered earth can be interpreted directly by adapting the procedure given by Koefoed (1968) for Schlumberger system. To carry out the first step of the interpretation leading to the determination of the raised kernel function, partial resistivity functions for the dipole method are derived and given in the form of standard curves. The second step involving the derivation of layering parameters from the kernel being independent of the electrode configurations remains unaltered. The applicability and limitations of the method are discussed.

Notes: Computations have been made for the effect of ground slope in combination with transmitter coil misorientation on different electromagnetic depth sounding systems and sets of frequency sounding master curves are presented for different angles. The effect of a thin air layer due to the elevation of coils above ground surface has been studied for different systems. Also discussed are the effects due to an error in transmitter-receiver coil separation.

Notes: Cable feathering is defined as the angle between a line connecting the cable end points and the line of the seismic profile. It is shown that an average reflection point map is more accurate than a shot point location map for geologic interpretation. Geologic resolution is degraded by feathering and this degradation is a function of the number of channels recorded. Feathering in areas of dipping reflectors produces non-standard normal move-out because the depth points are not common, and the perpendicular distances to the reflecting surfaces vary among traces in the c.d.p. gather. An example of a profile shot across a large river is discussed.

Notes: First, we review briefly the principle of the method, the computation of theoretical curves for a layered earth, and the recording technique in use in our surveys.The case history deals with an area covered with overthrust nappes (marls of Miocene age), which had slid on a Triassic sole, obscuring the geological picture.The magnetotelluric survey followed those of gravity and aeromagnetics and preceded the seismic one from North to South, it displayed a shallow and gently dipping basin, a major fault system, and a deep basin with a thick resistive layer, often underlying a conducting one.The seismics, and later the drilling of a well East of the profile, confirmed these features; in particular, the thick resistive layer was revealed to be Jurassic; only its thickness had been slightly overestimated. This fact lead the people in charge of the operations to ask for a reinterpretation synthesis of magnetotellurics, seismics and gravity, the results of which are also presented.

Notes: When the fixed-source electromagnetic method is applied the quantities measured are influenced by the resistivity of the whole environment. This occurs mostly in the cases of measurements in areas with prevailing high resistivities, and if a weathered layer with considerably lower resistivity than that of the original rock has been formed near the surface. For this reason it is important to be acquainted with the properties of the two-layer ground with an overlying conductive layer.In the present paper attention will be drawn to theoretical calculations connected with the field of the homogeneous ground and that of the two-layer ground.

Notes: In mathematical statistical filtering the deconvolution problem can be solved by two different methods:〈list xml:id="l1" style="custom"〉1by inverse filtering2by calculating the prediction error.Both methods are well known in the theory of Wiener filters.If, however, the generating process of the signal is known and can be described by a set of linear first order differential equations, then the Kalman filter can also be used to solve the deconvolution problem. In the case of the inverse filtering method this was shown by Bayless and Brigham (1970). But, while their method can only be used if the original signal is a colored random process, this paper shows that in the case of a white process the prediction error filtering method is a more appropriate approach. The method is extremely efficient and simple. This can be demonstrated by an example which maybe of special interest for seismic exploration.

Notes: The use of the electrical image method in calculating the potential of a source in the presence of a buried conductive sphere proves to be difficult because of the great number of terms making up the potential formula. The disadvantages contained by this method are avoided here by resorting to the theory of graphs. In view of this aim the “propagation” of the electrical images due to the sphere has been represented by an infinite graph to which an infinite matrix has been attached.Taking this as a basis several FORTRAN IV programs for the computation of resistivity pseudo-sections for various electrode configurations have been coded, and a great deal of such pseudo-sections have already been calculated with an IBM-360 computer. Using these results, recommendations regarding both the methodology of the geoelectrical prospecting of spherical shaped conductors and the most suitable way of building resistivity pseudo-sections are developed.

Notes: An account is given of the use of the square array technique in investigating the surface effects of rotational anisotropy when the axes of anisotropy are inclined to the surface. It is shown that, as with other arrays, two anisotropy parameters 〈inlineGraphic alt="inline image" href="urn:x-wiley:00168025:GPR249:GPR_249_mu1" location="equation/GPR_249_mu1.gif"/〉 and n can be derived by varying the array orientation.On the basis of these considerations, the effects of such anisotropy on the values of the mean apparent resistivity and azimuthal inhomogeneity ratio normally obtained in square array measurements is reviewed.Particular attention is paid to the variation of resistivity with orientation and it is noted that, in areas of moderate anisotropy, this variation is lower for the square than for the Schlumberger array.In addition to this advantage, the azimuthal inhomogeneity ratio obtained from square array measurements may be used to indicate the severity of anisotropy in an area and two field examples of this use are given.Where anisotropy is severe, gross variations of apparent resistivity with orientation are obtained with either square or collinear arrays. In these circumstances, the use of crossed measurements is considered and the particular stability of the crossed square array demonstrated.

Notes: Electrical resistivity sounding was attempted with success in 1960 on the surface of the Nile water in Khor Kundi El-Bahari, the starting place for the construction of the offset channel of the High Dam. The method was applied to determine the depth to the upper surface of the granite below the alluvium and Nile water. The success of the method conducted at two stations in the Khor is attributed to the favourable geological conditions of the section which consists of nearly homogeneous layers besides the good earthing conditions of electrodes dipped in water. The high resistivity contrast between water and granite facilitates interpretation of sounding curves. Factors interfering with the results of interpretation are mentioned.

Notes: This paper presents a dot chart for calculating gravity effects from two-dimensional bodies with the addition of a supplementary set of curves which can be used to determine the “end corrections” to modify the calculated effects when the length of the body is not relatively long with respect to the horizontal dimensions of the cross-section. The use of the chart is demonstrated by different examples. The results of theoretical cases amenable to mathematical treatment and computer results both compare favorably to those computed using the present chart.A fundamental incentive of constructing this chart, in a final form ready to use, is to make it available to gravity interpreters for utilization. Future effort in chart construction is thereby avoided.

Notes: By applying dynamic corrections a seismic trace recorded at a distance x from the energy source should be varied in such a way as to obtain a trace which would be recorded at zero-distance, i.e. at the source itself. Only such a zero-offset-trace contains the correct sequence of reflection coefficients (reflectivity function), whilst all other traces contain a distorted reflectivity function. In the simplest case, the reflectivity function is compressed over a shorter time whereas in more complicated cases a partial inversion of the reflectivity function results. This happens when some of the reflection hyperbolae intersect one another.The reconstruction of the true zero-offset reflectivity function by the application of dynamic corrections can only be an approximative process. In the first case mentioned we must expect a decrease in accuracy of the corrected trace in comparison with a zero-offset-trace. In the second case, where intersections of the hyperbolae occur, accurate reconstruction is clearly impossible.The problems are discussed with the help of theoretical and practical examples.

Notes: Fourier transform techniques have been used to calculate the theoretical filter (amplitude) response function of Nth order vertical derivative continuation operation. The amplitude response functions of the vertical gradient and its continuation follow from the same. These response functions are subsequently used to calculate the weighting coefficients suitable for two dimensional equispaced data. A shortening operator has been incorporated to limit the extent of the operator. For comparative study, some of the developed coefficient sets and the one presented in this paper are analysed in the frequency domain and their merits and demerits are discussed.

Notes: Creation of antifiltrational cementation curtains needed to prevent increased seepage from water reservoirs is a rather labour-consuming and costly measure. High cost of such curtains necessitates careful checking of the quality of cementation as well as the strength and stability of the solidified cement which is being formed in the pores and fissures of injected rocks.The traditional methods of control are rather labour-consuming and do not allow observations during process of cementation. The advantage of electrometric observations of cementation curtains lies in the possibility of making measurements on the surface from the moment of pumping slurry into a borehole up to the termination of cement hardening.The laboratory investigations carried out by the authors demonstrate an increase in the specific electrical resistivity of a cement in the course of hardening as well as the existence of a functional dependence between the electrical and strength parameters which allows to use the resistivity method for checking the cement strength.Methods of electrometric observations of cementation curtains are dependent on the particular features of cementation and the curtain dimensions. The observations are usually conducted in a network of profiles parallel to the curtain axis. The cement slurry spreading in the space is studied on the maps of ρa and geoelectrical sections obtained at different distances from the feed line. Zones of the strongest absorption of cement slurry are indicated by resistivity minima. The electrometric observations should be compared with the data on cement expenditure in the boreholes.The cement strengthening is monitored by comparing the results of control observations consecutively conducted in 1-2 months following the cementation, with utilization of the ρa maps and graphs. If the specific resistivities of the skeleton of the enclosing rocks and the filler of cavities are known, one can approximately evaluate the changes in the cement strength in absolute units (kg/cm2).By way of example, the authors give the results of electrometric observations conducted to evaluate the quality of an antifiltrational curtain on one of the high-mountain water reservoirs in Armenia.

Notes: The paper presents the method and algorithm for computing the time-distance curve for head waves in the case of a dipping refractor and velocity increasing with depth in the overburden. The method is illustrated by an example.

Notes: The widespread use of common depth point techniques has emphasized the need for accurate static corrections. Manual interpretation methods can give excellent results, but a computer technique is desirable because of the great volumn of data recorded in common depth point shooting. The redundancy inherent in common depth point data may be used to compute a statistical estimate of the static corrections. The corrections are assumed to be time-invarient, surface-consistent, and independent of frequency. Surface consistency implies that all traces from a particular shot will receive the same shot static correction and all traces from a particular receiver position will receive the same receiver correction.Time shifts are computed for all input traces using crosscorrelation functions between common depth point traces. The time shift for each trace is composed of a shot static, a receiver static, residual normal moveout if present, and noise. Estimates of the shot and receiver static corrections are obtained by averaging different sets of the measured time shifts. Time shifts which are greatly in error are detected and removed from the computations.The method is useful for data which has a moderate to good signal to noise ratio. Residual normal moveout should be corrected before estimating the statics. The program estimates the statics for correctly stacking common depth point traces but it is not sensitive to constant or very slowly changing static errors.

Notes: The comparison of a group of continuous total field stations in Ireland with the record of the total field from Valentia Observatory enables the errors which would be involved in using the Observatory as a diurnal correction base to be examined. For the most part, for a single correction, these errors lie between ± 2 and ± 6 gammas. However, they have three notable characteristics: (i) they are not closely dependent on the magnetic ‘noisiness’ of the day, (ii) they are only marginally reduced by the application of station-base time differences and (iii), they are strongly related to differences between the amplitude of the daily magnetic variation at the station and at the base. A permanent geographical basis for the latter differences enables a system for the estimation of the errors to be proposed.

Notes: The automatic picking of seismic sections becomes delicate with the presence of blind zones breaking up the continuity of horizons. This makes it difficult to establish correlations between reflections coming from above and below these blind zones.With the help of a certain number of characteristic parameters, a computer capable of storing a great quantity of data makes it possible to identify the horizons bounding a blind zone. Once this investigation has been made, the coherence between these horizons still has to be measured by making a factorial analysis of these different parameters. The statistical decision functions involved in this analysis are well adapted to computer logic. They enable the probability to be given with which the horizons located above and below blind zones correspond.A program has been worked out to provide the degree of coherence between such horizons.

Notes: An operative technique is described along with a method of representation of Induced Polarization values obtained over homogeneous rocks against the electrical power per unit volume.The results of similar experiments over two-layer ground, are shown according to the same operative technique and method of representation.With the method of representation suggested in this paper it is possible to distinguish discontinuities and to get information about the thickness of the upper medium.

Notes: Nomograms are presented for the purpose of rapid computation of the apparent resistivity functions from the field data for symmetrical and unsymmetrical linear electrode arrays.

Notes: Apparent resistivity measurements with the square array technique in the vicinity of a dipping interface have the advantage over collinear array methods that they are less dependent on orientation of the array.In order to exploit this, existing potential solutions for the dipping interface problem have been adapted for the computation of apparent resistivities over such a feature using a square array.Comprehensive interpretation techniques covering this problem are given and the limitations imposed by residual array orientation effects are discussed.

Notes: L'onde amortie de type Rayleigh à l'interface de deux milieux solides à fort contraste de densités et de vitesses est étudiée théoriquement et expérimentalement sur un modèle à deux dimensions plexiglas-laiton.

Notes: In the interpretation of anomalies obtained with moving source-receiver dipole electromagnetic surveys, use is frequently made of the so-called phasor or vector diagrams. Most such diagrams are based on model experiments or theoretical calculations on bodies of simple geometry. If the anomaly at some given coil-separation and frequency is known it is possible to predict the anomaly at some other separation and frequency. While the results of such predictions often agree admirably in the laboratory experiments, wide, systematic discrepancies are observed in full-scale field work. Some of the discrepancies can be explained by various phenomenological arguments and in this respect the effect of overburden conductivity appears to be more serious than is generally supposed. The effect of phase rotation due to the overburden is discussed in detail.The paper is mainly a cautionary note based on some full-scale data of multi-frequency, multi-separation surveys against the blind use of vector diagrams, but it also discusses the extent of the extra information and interpretation aid provided by such surveys.

Notes: The considerable increase of sensitivity of new magnetometers allows the elaboration of magnetometric maps with contour intervals of fractions of one gamma. On these maps, small anomalies appear which had never been visible before. They are caused by susceptibility contrasts within the sediments.The areal distribution of these small undulations of the magnetic field depends on tectonics, therefore their analysis can give useful information about the tectonic pattern of the sediments. This paper discusses the automatic transformation of these small anomalies into tectonic units. The problem is solved by a method called Digital Template Analysis which has already yielded very useful results in gravity interpretation.The application of the method described is restricted to surveys executed by high sensitivity magnetometers. Therefore it is supposed that in most oil exploration problems these magnetometers will replace instruments with lower sensitivity. The improved magnetometer surveys in combination with the interpretation method described represent a most efficient, fast and unexpensive reconnaissance method.