Abstract
The ray theoretical great circle approximation in global surface wave tomography is found to be limited to Earth models with a maximum degree l ≤ 30 for surface waves at 40 s and l ≤ 20 for surface waves at 150 s. This result holds for both phase velocity and group velocity maps. The highest resolution in present‐day global surface wave tomography is close to these limits of ray theory. In order to obtain higher degree resolution models of the Earth in future surface wave tomography, it is necessary to take the scattering of surface waves into account. Increasing the data coverage in seismological networks will not improve the details of tomographic images if ray theory is still applied. It is essential to include the finite‐frequency effects as well.
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 call
