Gravity Prediction by Pseudo-Density Profiling.
Abstract
This paper investigates the problem of predicting gravity values in ocean areas which are sparsely surveyed. Some of the prediction techniques currently employed are summarized and a brief review of gravity reductions pertinent to this study are presented. In an effort to use accepted statistical algorithms supplemented by other supporting geophysical data, gravity prediction by the method of pseudo-density profiling is then developed. This interpolating procedure uses the correlation of free-air gravity and bathymetry to predict values in ocean areas where gravity observations are sparse but bottom topography is known in detail. An integral part of the method is optimizing the gravity/bathymetric relationship by low-pass filtering the bathymetry. Conclusions of this study are based on examples of both one- and two-dimensional applications and illustrate that under the proper conditions, the pseudo-density method produces results which are superior to other interpolation techniques. In areas where coverage is not so sparse, departure of predicted gravity from observed values provides a method for inferring lateral variations in density associated with regional geology and tectonics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA022869
Entities
People
- Donald W. Hill
Organizations
- Naval Oceanographic Office