Basic Wave Analysis

Written in three parts, Basic Wave Analysis provides the information required for understanding the fundamental aspects of the elaborate computer processing schemes prevalent in exploration geophysics. Part 1 addresses velocity analysis. The correct determination of velocity is the most important problem in seismic exploration, and an understanding of velocity analysis is a valuable asset for a geophysicist. Part 2 discusses raypath analysis. Raypaths provide a geometrical picture of how waves travel, so that a person can visualize raypaths in their imagination. Geometrical pictures are as important in seismology as they are in optics. Part 3 addresses wavefront analysis. A person cannot easily visualize traveling wavefronts in their imagination; however, a computer can follow their motion and give the geophysicist the final outcome. Knowledge of wavefront analysis helps a geophysicist understand many modern computer methods.

Alongside contemporary technical information, however, this book also serves to remind the readers of our pioneering ancestors of scientific research. Too often, the study of science pays minimal attention to the historical forbearers to whom we owe much. On the contrary, the stories of these important figures provide fascinating insight into the development of ideas which underpin our work today. Basic Wave Analysis was copublished with EAGE.