Estimation of Seismic Quality Factor via Quantum Mechanics-Based Signal Representation

Abstract

We propose a stable seismic Q estimation approach by employing quantum mechanics-based signal representation. For Q estimation, we project a seismic trace onto a specific basis composed of wave functions constructed through the resolution of the Schroedinger equation of non-relativistic quantum mechanics at first. Then, based on the specific basis, we derive the quantum mechanics-based Q estimation approach in the local frequency-projection coefficient domain. The Planck constant and the control factor are the two key factors for the quantum mechanics-based Q estimation method. Compared with the traditional methods, the quantum mechanics-based Q estimation approach shows more stability and noise robustness. The synthetic and field data applications illustrate the effectiveness and the superiority of the proposed method. The quantum mechanics-based Q estimation method offers a new field and provides a complementary way for measuring seismic attenuation.