Abstract
AbstractThe outermost part of the inner core is isotropic, though the thickness of this layer varies longitudinally, commonly interpreted to be a zone where compaction of the crystallites randomly adhering to the inner core boundary eventually aligns them. We explore the possibility that the surface layer is also anisotropic, but of a form that thwarts detection by travel time observation. If the surface material is hexagonally anisotropic with a vertical symmetry axis (vertically oriented transverse isotropy), P wave travel times through the shallow inner core will not depend on their angle to the Earth's rotation axis. To detect any anisotropy in this layer, we explore PKiKP amplitudes versus distance to determine whether there is a range trend diagnostic of anisotropy. P wave anisotropy levels of 2–10% can increase reflection amplitudes by a factor of 10. The trend of PKiKP amplitude with range may be fit with vertically oriented transverse isotropy anisotropy levels of 5–10%.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
