
Reflection
Seismology

The University of Arizona Reflection Seismology
program has outstanding facilities for seismic data acquisition, processing and
modeling to investigate Earth structures from the near-surface to the deep crust
and upper mantle. Although reflection seismic techniques were designed
principally as tools for petroleum exploration, these techniques have proven to
be immensely valuable in understanding crustal structure and the details of
tectonic processes.
In the academic environment, the application of seismic reflection technology
often is somewhat unusual. Profiling across Precambrian suture zones,
three-component recording to image the base of the crust, or imaging low-angle
or listric normal fault planes in the Basin and Range Province don't often lead
to "prospects," but can give very important insights to how the Earth
works. This information, in turn, is critical to explorationists who rely on
accurate Earth science data to predict where resources should be found, and to
other scientists, policy makers and the public who need to know that the Earth's
resources are used wisely. Furthermore, these unusual applications require that
we develop new approaches to data acquisition and analysis and, thus, have the
potential for generating new technological developments.
Under the various headings above, you can find out more about Reflection
Seismology and what is happening in this exciting area at the University
of Arizona - Welcome!

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Under development by
Dr.
Roy A. Johnson. Last Modified: January 31, 2006
email: johnson@geo.Arizona.EDU
