Two-dimensional magnetotelluric characterization of the El Hito Anticline (Loranca Basin, Spain)

Abstract

Abstract Magnetotelluric surveys were conducted to investigate the structure in the El Hito Anticline in the southern Loranca Basin, Spain. The structure of this anticline is partly known from nearby data (geological cross sections, geological maps, well-logs) from vintage geophysical and geological basin-scale surveys. Unfortunately, these surveys do not have the appropriate resolution to determine certain characteristics of the anticline accurately, such as the thickness or geometry of geological units. To address this deficiency, magnetotelluric data were acquired at 51 sites along three profiles to image the electrical resistivity of the anticline. To identify a geologically reasonable resistivity model, a conceptual model based on previous geological and geophysical information (cross sections and well-log data) was generated. Several inversions were performed using the conceptual model, which played a key role in the interpretation of the magnetotelluric data, and the construction of a suitable initial model was essential in producing geologically meaningful models. Using these results, we obtained 2-D resistivity models that provide information on the main geological units and structures. We also performed sensitivity tests to understand the morphology and structure of the resistive basement better. The results indicate the presence of basement highs that show different structural styles for the basement and its cover, and an increase in the basement depth towards the south. The final 2-D resistivity models provide new information regarding the structure of the anticline and demonstrate a clear correlation between the main geological units and resistivity, as well as correlations with mapped surface faults.