The VSP Method for Transverse (Monotype and Converted) Waves

Abstract

During the first stages of the development of the transverse reflected wave method, the principal advantages were associated with the prospects of improved resolution and accuracy of mapping geologic structures. In particular, this is required for the solution of problems such as low-dip structures, wedged layers etc. In recent years the principal advantages of the transverse wave method are being associated with the acquisition of additional information about the velocities and absorption coefficients of S-waves, such information being necessary for making predictions of the geologic section. In regional studies, converted transmitted waves also enable the accuracy of the studies to be improved as compared with methods utilizing longitudinal waves such as the correlational method of refracted waves and deep seismic sounding. This is even more true of methods employing remote earthquakes.