Magnitude/Yield Variability in the Western United States: Analysis of the Rulison/Gasbuggy Anomaly
Abstract
An attempt was made to develop a quantitative understanding of the Rulison/Gasbuggy mb/yield anomaly. This effort has encompassed comparative studies of near-regional, regional and teleseismic data recorded from these two explosions, as well as theoretical simulation analysis of selected near-regional and teleseismic data sets. Various hypotheses which have been proposed to explain the mb anomaly, including differences in explosive source coupling, variations in upper mantle attenuation beneath the two test sites and tectonic release effects have been considered and critically evaluated. Analysis of the evidence provided by the near-regional, broadband seismic data recorded from these two explosions indicates that the mb/yield anomaly is not due to differences in explosive source coupling. Evidence is presented which indicates that signification tectonic release occurred on Rulison, and it is demonstrated that the characteristics of this inferred tectonic release are quantitatively consistent with the observed mb/yield anomaly.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA127120
Entities
People
- C. B. Archambeau
- H. K. Shah
- John R. Murphy