Crustal Structure from a High-Resolution Seismic Refraction Profile Across the Basin and Range-Middle Rocky Mountains Transition Zone.

Abstract

A high-resolution seismic refraction profile using large open-pit quarry blasts as sources, has been recorded along a line which crosses the Basin and Range-Middle Rocky Mountains provinces boundary. Interpretation of these data and existing USGS refraction lines in the region indicates that crustal thickness and upper mantle P-wave velocity increase to the east of the boundary. The increase in crustal thickness does not occur at the boundary between physiographic provinces but begins about 50 km east of the Wasatch front. A crustal low velocity layer located between 10 and 15 km in depth is continuous from the Basin and Range province into the Middle Rocky Mountains. The velocity contrast between the low velocity layer and the overlying granitic layer decreases to the east. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 15, 1972
Accession Number
AD0753850

Entities

People

  • G. R. Keller
  • L. W. Braile
  • R. B. Smith
  • R. M. Welch

Organizations

  • University of Utah

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Boundaries
  • Contrast
  • High Resolution
  • Landforms
  • Mountains
  • Physical Properties
  • Refraction
  • Rocky Mountains
  • Thickness
  • Transitions

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Fluid Dynamics.
  • Seismology