Theoretical Body and Surface Wave Magnitudes for Twelve Numerically Simulated Cratering Explosions
Abstract
The results of the Systems, Science and Software contribution to a study of cratering explosions are presented. A series of twelve numerical simulations of 150 kt cratering explosions in three materials at several depths were carried out by Applied Theory, Incorporated. The data from these calculations were processed to compute theoretical far-field body and surface wave seismograms and from these to determine M sub b and M sub s. The M sub b and M sub s data is to be analyzed by Pacific Sierra Research. The theoretical seismogram calculations are done in a two-step process. First, an equivalent elastic source representation of the cratering event is obtained. The wave field is then propagated through realistic layered earth models to teleseismic distances. For this application the procedure is found to be more accurate for the shorter period body waves than for the surface waves. The M sub b and M sub s values are presented for the twelve 150 kt sources and for these sources scaled to 37.5 and 600 kt. Also given are the values for contained explosions of the same yield in the same emplacement material. The contribution of the ejecta fallback is studied and is found to be insignificant for teleseismic magnitude values.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA043387
Entities
People
- B. F. Mason
- J. F. Masso
- Thomas C. Bache
Organizations
- Utility Systems Science and Software (United States)