Abstract
Finite element simulation of the electromagnetic fields in complex geological media is commonly used in interpreting field data. In this paper, recent, major improvements to finite element methodology are outlined. The implementation of a moving finite element technique, in which the mesh nodes are allowed to move adaptively to achieve an accurate solution, is described. Efficient matrix solutions based on incomplete factorization and matrix ordering are also discussed; these offer order of magnitude reductions in memory requirements and increases in execution speed. Finally, the advantages of adapting finite element codes to modern supercomputers are emphasized. These topics are illustrated by formulating a moving finite element forward model for the two-dimensional magnetotelluric problem. The result is validated by comparison with standard control models. While preliminary in nature, the result does indicate that substantial improvements to geophysical modeling can be achieved through the use of modern approaches.
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