ON REFLECTED REFRACTION WAVES*

Abstract

ABSTRACTAs an introduction the various ray paths of a refraction wave, which is reflected at a fault, are discussed for the case of an arbitrary angle between the refracting horizon and the fault. Simple geometric considerations lead to the conclusion that the best chances for recording these pulses are encountered, if the angle between the refracting horizon and the fault is either 90° or the critical angle of refraction. In both cases identical travel times of the pulses are to be expected.The case of a fault perpendicular to the refracting horizon is considered in detail for dipping beds. Formulas for the shot point travel time curve and the time contour map are derived. Computed time contour maps show considerable differences between the direction of strike of the contour lines and the strike of the fault, as well as between the recorded apparent velocity and the true velocity of the refracting horizon. Finally, alignment charts and computing procedures are given by which the position of the fault and the velocity of the refracting horizon can be obtained from the recorded shot point travel times or the time contour map.