Barents Sea continental margin sonobuoy data

Abstract

Results from 68 closely spaced sonobuoys obtained aboard R/V Bartlett are combined with 30 published sonobuoy results obtained aboard R/V Vema to provide about 300 velocity solutions from the Barents Sea area and its western continental margin. Sections have been compiled from the closely spaced Bartlett stations, and statistical regressions of sediment sound velocity versus depth were made with all the available data. It was found that distinct geologic provinces from this region can be characterized with five separate velocity-depth curves, based on the regressions. The very low velocity gradient in the thick Tertiary wedge of sediments just west of the Barents shelf probably indicates rapid, deltaic deposition. More than 9 km of subbottom penetration was achieved in this Tertiary wedge.