Microseisms: Mode Structure and Sources

Abstract

Frequency-wave number spectra of microseisms were obtained by use of a set of short-period and long-period seismometers at LASA (Large Aperture Seismic Array, Montana). At times of relatively high microseismic activity short-period (shorter than 5 seconds) microseisms consist of both body waves and higher-mode surface waves. From the phase velocity and direction of body waves, source areas were determined, coinciding with low-pressure regions on the weather map. At longer periods, microseisms consist of fundamental- mode Rayleigh and Love waves, the former being dominant. Most microseismic energy arrives at LASA from the northeast and the west.