Velocity
modeling with complex tectonics; example from the San Joaquin forearc basin, California
Abstract
Lateral velocity
variations across steep thrust faults or steeply dipping beds are difficult to incorporate in
velocity
models where structure is usually controlled by unfaulted, single-z grids. The west side of the San Joaquin basin is a tectonically complex environment with steep dips, unconformities,
variable
fault geometries, complex basement lithologies, and outcrops to the west. All of these contribute to a complex structural model that is important to capture in
velocity
modeling to allow for the most accurate depth conversion. In the past, geologic models had to be manually manipulated to account for discrete fault blocks. This process is time-consuming and difficult to update as interpretations change. Here we show how we are able to build a dynamic framework and resulting
velocity
model that accounts for fault offset, unconformities, and geologic history.
AAPG Datapages/Search and Discovery Article #90266 © 2016 AAPG Pacific Section and Rocky Mountain Section Joint Meeting, Las Vegas, Nevada, October 2-5, 2016