Abstract: Computer Analysis of Lineaments to Infer Existence of Subsurface Geologic Structures

L. F. Rice, J. H. Davis, A. C. Johnson

Surface lineaments ranging from hundreds of feet to several miles in length can be identified through interpretation of high-altitude imagery. Studies of regional extent indicate that the azimuths of the lineaments are in four predominant groups, each group having a predominant direction. These four predominant directions represent regional trends. Of interest are the deviations of individual lineaments from the regional trends. In particular, areas in which the lineaments have, on the average, large deviations from their group-predominant direction represent boundaries of nonregional trends, such as structural or stratigraphic anomalies.

An algorithm and computer program was developed which starts with a map of lineaments, produces a histogram of the lineament azimuths, and statistically defines the four predominant groups and each group's predominant direction. The program determines the deviation of each lineament from its group-predominant direction and produces a contour map of the absolute deviations. The contour map then is used to identify possible subsurface structures.

Good correlation has been exhibited between the contour map and known structural and stratigraphic anomalies.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90972©1976 AAPG-SEPM Annual Convention and Exhibition, New Orleans, LA