Propagation and attenuation of a Ricker pulse in one-dimensional randomly heterogeneous media: a numerical study

Abstract

Numerical simulations are extensively used to study some major features of acoustic wave propagation in one-dimensional random media. Gaussian and exponential stationary media, in which a Ricker pulse is applied, are considered. The properties numerically shown in this paper deal with the irregular progression of the wave front and the changes in its energy distribution with respect to time. Particular emphasis is given to the study of the apparent attenuation factor. Not only are the results shown to be in good agreement with existing analytical studies, but they also provide a more thorough insight into propagation phenomena, especially when the corresponding analytical predictions no longer hold true.