Reconstruction of Land and Marine Features by Seismic and Surface Geomorphology Techniques

Abstract

Seismic reflection utilizes sound waves transmitted into the subsurface, reflected at rock boundaries, and recorded at the surface. Interpretation of their travel times and amplitudes are the key for reconstructing various geomorphological features across geological time (e.g., reefs, dunes, and channels). Furthermore, the integration of surface geomorphology technique mapping, such as digital elevation models, with seismic geomorphology can increase land and marine feature modelling and reduce data uncertainty, as well. This paper presents an overview of seismic and surface geomorphology techniques and proposes an integrated workflow for better geological mapping, 3D surface imaging, and reconstruction. We intend to identify which techniques are more often used and which approaches are more appropriate for better output results. We noticed that an integration of surface and subsurface geomorphology techniques could be beneficial for society in landscape mapping, reservoir characterization, and city/regional planning.

Keywords

• quantitative geomorphology
• seismic geomorphology
• seismic reflection
• 3D imaging
• earth surface reconstruction
• remote sensing