Research in reflection seismology at the University of Arizona is concentrated in four broad areas of investigation: 1) detailed analysis of extensional fault geometries and basin evolution in the western U.S.; 2) complex deep crustal structure in extended and unextended regions; 3) P-wave and S-wave analysis of Poisson's ratio, crustal composition, and in situ rock properties, and 4) digital processing of seismic data to enhance interpretations.  A new direction of research, developed over the past year, focuses on understanding the occurrence of natural-gas (methane) hydrates beneath permafrost on Alaska's North Slope.  This new research direction takes advantage of techniques in quantitative analysis of high-quality 3-D seismic reflection data.  An exciting aspect of all of these investigations is that they are interrelated; progress in any area enhances the understanding of others.

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