1887
Volume 8, Issue 4
  • ISSN: 0812-3985
  • E-ISSN: 1834-7533

Abstract

A non-linear optimisation procedure has been applied to the interpretation of two-dimensional gravity anomalies. In comparison with linear methods, the non-linear approach is more difficult to control but can give more realistic solutions. Successful application of the non-linear approach depends upon the selection of a reasonable starting model from rules of thumb. The model is then changed iteratively so that the difference between the calculated and observed values is minimised. The method of changing the model is dependent upon the optimisation procedure used. Three basic procedures are available: gradient descent methods, the simplex method and the Monte Carlo method. In the authors’ experience, the simplex method is a relatively efficient optimisation procedure in this application.

As an example of the application of the non-linear method an interpretation of the gravity anomaly over the Wentworth Trough (western New South Wales) is presented in terms of quadrilateral models of fixed density contrast. A range of possible models is presented, all of which fit the observed data equally well.

© 1977 ASEG
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1977-12-01
2026-01-17

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References

  1. AL-CHALABI, M., 1971. Some studies relating to non-uniqueness in gravity and magnetic problems. Geophysics 36, 835-855.
  2. AL-CHALABI, M., 1972. Interpretation of gravity anomalies by non-linear optimization. Geophys. Prospect. 20, 1-16.
  3. BATH, M., 1974. Spectral analysis in geophysics. Developments in Solid Earth Geophysics 1, Elsevier.
  4. GRANT, E.S. and WEST, G.F., 1965. Interpretation theory in applied geophysics, McGraw-Hill.
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  7. PARASNIS, D.S., 1975. Mining geophysics. Methods in Geochemistry and Geophysics 3, Elsevier.
  8. PARKER, R.L., 1974. Best bounds on density and depth from gravity data, Geophysics 39, 644-649.
  9. PARKER, R.L., 1975. The theory of ideal bodies for gravity interpretations, Geophys. J.R. Astr. Soc. 42, 315-334.
  10. SMITH, R.A., 1961. A uniqueness theorem concerning gravity fields, Proc. Camb. Phil. Soc. 57, 865-870.
  11. VAN KLINKEN, G.A., 1977. Geophysical studies on the Wentworth Trough, western New South Wales, M.Sc. thesis Macquarie University (unpubl.).
  12. WHITEHILL, D.E., 1973. Automated interpretation of magnetic anomalies using the vertical prism model. Geophysics 38, 1070-1087.
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  • Article Type: Research Article

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