GEOL463
Resolution
Resolution is the ability to discern
two closely spaced reflectors at depth.
Seismic resolution is controlled by the
bandwidth of the signal, which is typically f=30-140
Hz.
Reflection frequencies decrease with
depth because of attenuation
of seismic waves, and this also decreases the resolution at depth.
Vertical resolution is estimated as dz»l/4, where l is the “dominant wavelength”: l=V/f. Thus, dz can
be 5-10 m.
Horizontal resolution also decreases with depth:
However, migration somewhat relieves this limit and replaces it with several l.
