Numerical modeling of the high-latitude F-layer anomalies

The results of a detailed numerical study of the behaviour of the convective polar ionosphere are presented. The developed theoretical model produces three-dimensional distribution of electron density, electron and ion temperature. The effects of auroral particle precipitation on the density and temperature structures are studied for winter and low solar activity conditions. The high-latitude ionospheric features, such as the tongue of ionization, the main trough the polar ionization peak, the auroral ionization peak, the high-latitude ionization hole, the tongue of electron temperature, the high latitude minima of electron, temperature, and the ion temperature hot spot are obtained from calculations.Numerically obtained results are used for determining the HF propagation paths in the polar ionosphere. The effects of ionospheric irregularities on high frequency ionospheric radio waves are investigated by using a three-dimensional ray-tracing computer program. Ray-path trajectories are presented for different values of the elevation angle of transmission. From our study, it was found that large-scale irregularity structures of the high-latitude ionosphere, in the presence of the earth's magnetic field, significantly affect high frequency radio wave propagation.     

The gross features of the lithosphere-asthenosphere system in Europe from seismic surface waves and body waves

Long-period recordings of dispersive Rayleigh waves along numerous station lines, or profiles, in Europe have for the first time permitted a uniform inversion of these observations based on a new method of phase velocity regionalization.Regional dispersion relations obtained by this method have then been subjected to a complete inversion procedure commonly known as the hedgehog method. The results are presented in a map outlining the thickness of the lower lithosphere (lid) and the shear (S) velocities in both the lid and the asthenosphere channel.A comparison of these results with the minimum compressional (P) wave velocities in the asthenosphere and their corresponding depths provides an estimate of theV _p /V _s ratio for the asthenosphere in the European area.Contribution No. 314, Institute of Geophysics, ETH-Zürich, Switzerland.     

Results of concentration and mobility measurements of positively and negatively charged particles taken by a rocket-borne parachuted aspiration (Gerdien) probe in the height region from 72 to 39 km

Summary With a self-neutralizing, rocket-borne parachute aspiration probe concentration and mobility measurements of positively and negatively charged carriers were made between 72 and 40 km over Sardinia. Between 72 km and 60 km a heavy and a light group of positively charged particles were found. The heavy group was more abundant than the hight group in the greater heights. For the negatively charged particles only one mobility group was found which roughly corresponded to the mobility of the light group of the positively charged carriers. The probe was designed so that no electrons could enter the analyzer section of the aspiration system. By this the electron concentration was given by the difference in concentration between the positively and negatively charged particles.This paper was read byH. Dolezalek, in an abbreviated form supplied by the authors.     

Asymptotic Ray Theory for Seismic Surface Waves in Laterally Inhomogeneous Media

A recurrence procedure is outlined for constructing asymptotic series for surface wave field in a half-space with weak lateral heterogeneity. Both horizontal variations of the elastic parameters and of the wave field are assumed small on the distances comparable with the wavelength. This is equivalent to the condition that the frequency is large. The Surface Wave Asymptotic Ray Theory (SWART) is an analog of the asymptotic ray theory (ART) for body waves. However the case of surface waves presents additional difficulty: the rate of amplitude variation is different in vertical and horizontal directions. In vertical direction it is proportional to the large parameter . To overcome this difficulty the transformation equalizing vertical and horizontal coordinated is suggested, Z = z. In the coordinates x,y,Z the wave field is represented as an asymptotic series in inverse powers of . The amplitudes of successive terms of the series are determined from a recurrent system of equations. Attention is paid to similarity and difference of the procedures for constructing the ray series in SWART and ART. Applications of SWART to interpretation of seismological observations are discussed.     

A new dual frequency moving source-receiverem unit

Summary The paper describes a new portable highly sensitive dual-frequency electromagnetic prospecting unit designed for detailedem surveys based on moving source compensation method. Employing horizontal-horizontal coil profiling, the unit is capable of working on a source-receiver separation of 330 feet (ninety meters) on both frequencies of 500 cycles per sec and 1500 cycles per sec to an accuracy of ±1%. The presence of secondary field characterised by two related components in-phase and out-of-phase are measured accurately to define the conductor characteristics. An unique provision is made for compensating the phase-shifts in the presence of medium to poor conductors, such as conductive overburden or relatively disseminated ore mineralisation.This paper is published by the kind permission of the Director General, Geological Survey of India.     

Large-scale structure of magnetospheric plasma

Recent investigations of magnetospheric plasma structure are summarized under the broad categories of empirical models, transport across boundaries, formation, and dynamics of the plasma sheet. This report reviews work in these areas during the period 1991 to 1993. Fully three-dimensional empirical models and simulations have become important contributors to our understanding of the magnetospheric system. Some new structural concepts have appeared in the literature: the entry boundary and geopause, the plasma sheet region 1 vortices, the low-energy layer, the adiabaticity boundary or wall region, and a region in the tail to which we refer as the injection port. Traditional structural concepts have also been the subject of recent study, notably the plasmapause, the magnetopause, and the plasma sheet. Significant progress has been made in understanding the nature of plasma sheet formation and dynamics, but the acceleration of electrons to high energy remains somewhat mysterious.     

Comparison of short- and long-periodP-wave travel times and arrival angles

Summary Using about 100 earthquakes recorded on both the short-period and long-period matched three-component seismograph systems at Umeå (UME) in northern Sweden, relativeP-wave travel times (LP-SP) are measured and arrival angles (incidence and azimuth) are determined from relative amplitudes ofP. Long-period onsets appear to register consistently later than short-period ones by a couple of tenths of a second. This figure is of the same order as the uncertainty in T _LS (difference between LP and SP onset times), but still is shown to be of some statistical significance. The effect is believed due, at least in part, to the relative inability of the long-period seismometer to visibly register an initial shorter-period lower-amplitude focal phase from some earthquakes.The dip on crustal interfaces implied by the short-period azimuth and incidence-angle anomalies is 7 to 15 times greater than that implied by the long-period anomalies. This effect is believed due to undulation or irregularity of, foremost, the Moho, as well as other crustal boundaries. The wavelength of, say, Moho undulations would seem to be limited above and below by considerations of the dominant long-period wavelengths (100 km) and of the diameter of Moho sampled by the short-period waves (50 km). The possible undesirable effect of the crustal layering on the components of surface motion, and thus on the arrival angles, is discussed and cautiously dismissed, due to the absence of sedimentary layering, in favour of the above interpretation.     

Sealing law of far-field spectra based on observed parameters of the specific barrier model

A set of acceleration source spectra is constructed using the observed parameters of the specific barrier model of Papageorgiou and Aki. The spectra show a significant departure from the ²-model at the high frequency range. Specifically, the high frequency spectral amplitudes of seismic excitation are higher as compared to the level predicted by the ²-model. This is also supported by other observational evidence. The high frequency amplitudes of acceleration scale proportionally to the square root of the rupture areaS, to the rupture spreading velocityv, and to the local strain drop (/) (=strain drop in between barriers). The local strain drop in between barriers is not related in a simple way to the global strain drop, which is the strain drop estimated by assuming that it is uniform over the entire rupture area. Consequently, the similarity law does not apply. Using the source spectra which we constructed, we derive expressions for high frequency amplitudes of acceleration such asa _rms anda _max. Close to the fault both are independent of fault dimensions and scale as (/µ)(f)^1/2, while away from the fault plane they scale asW ^1/2(/µ)(f)^1/2, whereW is the width of the fault and f is the effective bandwidth of the spectra.     

Algorithm for solving 3-D problems of em induction by means of a vector integral equation

Summary An algorithm is presented for solving the problem of electromagnetic induction in a halspace with a 3-D perturbing body under a harmonically variable exciting field. There are analysed properties of the Green's tensor function elements as well as their integrals in elementary prismatic volumes into which the body is divided. The results, obtained from numerical computations, are given for a long highly conducting prism, which is one of the models in the COMMEMI project.

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Statistical methods for river runoff prediction

Methods used to analyze one type of nonstationary stochastic processes—the periodically correlated process—are considered. Two methods of one-step-forward prediction of periodically correlated time series are examined. One-step-forward predictions made in accordance with an autoregression model and a model of an artificial neural network with one latent neuron layer and with an adaptation mechanism of network parameters in a moving time window were compared in terms of efficiency. The comparison showed that, in the case of prediction for one time step for time series of mean monthly water discharge, the simpler autoregression model is more efficient.Translated from Vodnye Resursy, Vol. 32, No. 2, 2005, pp. 133–145.Original Russian Text Copyright © 2005 by Pisarenko, Lyubushin, Bolgov, Rukavishnikova, Kanyu, Kanevskii, Saveleva, Demyanov, Zalyapin.     

Numerical study of non-linear storm-surges

Summary The problem of storm-surges is investigated in a rectangular basin, setting up a numerical hydrodynamical model using the shallow-water equations. The forcing exerted by the atmosphere is given in the idealized form of a constant wind blowing over a section of the basin. The case in which the window of wind is moving is considered and for a basin that has the same dimensions of the Adriatic Sea. The conditions that give the maximum surge at one edge of the basin are investigated.

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Riassunto Il problema relativo alle storm-surges viene studiato in un bacino rettangolare, costru endo un modello idrodinamico numerico ed usando le equazioni relative ad acqua poco profonda. Lo stress esercitato dall'atmosfera è dato nella forma idealizzata di un vento costante che soffia sopra una sezione del bacino. Si considera il caso in cui la finestra di vento è in moto e per un bacino che ha le medesime dimensioni del mare Adriatico. Si studiano le condizioni che provocano il massimo dell'innalzamento ad un estremo del bacino.

     

A Local Least-Squares Modification of Stokes’ Formula

The combination of Stokes formula and an Earth Gravity Model (EGM) for geoid determination has become a standard procedure. However, the way of modifying Stokes formula vary from author to author, and numerous methods of modification exist. Most methods are deterministic, with the primary goal of reducing the truncation bias committed by limiting the area of Stokes integration around the computation point, but there are also some stochastic methods with the explicit goal to reduce the global mean square error of the geoid height estimator stemming from the truncation bias as well as the random errors of the EGM and the gravity data. The latter estimators are thus, at least from a theoretical point of view, optimal in a global mean sense, but in a local sense they may be far from optimality.Here we take advantage of the error variance-covariance matrices of the EGM and the terrestrial gravity data to derive the modification parameters of Stokes kernel in a local least-squares sense. The solution is given for the unbiased type of modification of Stokes formula of Sjöberg (1991).     

A note on the general concept of wave breaking for Rossby and gravity waves

A recently proposed general definition of wave breaking is further discussed, in order to deal with some points on which misunderstanding appears to have arisen. As with surface and internal gravity waves, the classification of Rossby waves into breaking and not breaking is a generic classification based on dynamical considerations, and not a statement about any unique signature or automatically recognizable shape. Nor is it a statement about passive tracers uncorrelated with potential vorticity on isentropic surfaces. A strong motivation for the definition is that proofs of the nonacceleration theorem of wave, mean-flow interaction theory rely, explicitly or implicitly, on a hypothesis that the waves do not break in the sense envisaged.The general definition refers to the qualitative behaviour of a certain set of material contours, namely those, and only those, which would undulate reversibly, with small slopes, under the influence of the waves' restoring mechanism, in those circumstances for which linearized, nondissipative wave theory is a self-consistent approximation to nonlinear reality. The waves' restoring mechanism depends upon the basic-state vertical potential density gradient in the case of gravity waves, and upon the basic-state isentropic gradient of potential vorticity in the case of Rossby waves. In the usual linearized theory of planetary scale Rossby waves on a zonal shear flow, the relevant material contours lie along latitude circles when undisturbed.     

Generators in atmospheric electricity

Summary The definition of a generator in atmospheric electricity is considered, and various phenomena are discussed as to whether they can be described as generators.     

Plasma drift estimates from the Dynasonde: comparison with EISCAT measurements

Modern ionosondes make almost simultaneous measurements of the time rate of change of phase path in different directions and at different heights. By combining these Doppler measurements and angles of arrival of many such radar echoes it is possible to derive reliable estimates of plasma drift velocity for a defined scattering volume. Results from both multifrequency and kinesonde-mode soundings at 3-min resolution show that the Dynasonde-derived F-region drift velocity is in good agreement with EISCAT, despite data loss during intervals of blanketing by intense E-region ionisation. It is clear that the Tromsø Dynasonde, employing standard operating modes, gives a reliable indication of overall convection patterns during quiet to moderately active conditions.     

Seismic signals in geothermal areas of active volcanism: a case study from ‘La Fossa’, Vulcano (Italy)

Since the last eruption (1888–1890) volcanism at Vulcano, Aeolian Archipelago, southern Tyrrhenian Sea, has taken the form of persistent fumarolic activity. The gas-vapour phases of the geothermal systems are mainly discharged within two restricted areas about 1 km apart from each other, in the northern part of the island. These areas are La Fossa crater, and the beach fumaroles of the Baia di Levante. Fluids released at the two main fumarolic fields display quite different chemical and temperature characteristics, implying different origins. The local seismicity essentially takes the form of discrete shocks of shallow origin (depth1 km) at La Fossa, usually with energy < 10¹³ ergs. They are thought to be related to the uprise of pressurized hot gases and vapours discharged at the crater fumaroles. The present investigation points to the existence of two principal categories of seismic events (called M-shocks and N-shocks). These are short events (normally < 10 s). M-type shocks are thought to be due to resonance vibrations within the interior of the volcano, probably driven by the excitation of shock-waves within cavities deeply affected by deposition and alteration of self-sealant hydrothermal minerals. N-type events display features that resemble those of volcano-tectonic earthquakes, but have no recognizable S-phases. Here they are tentatively attributed to microfracturing of rocks which have been extensively hydrothermally altered. Results of the present study permit a preliminary conceptual model of the local shallow seismic processes in the framework of geochemical modelling of fumarolic activity and geological inferences from geothermal drilling.     

Estimation of the Source Time Function Based on Blind Deconvolution with Gaussian Mixtures

It is demonstrated that the blind deconvolution method is fully capable of recovering the unknown Greens function and of estimating the source time functions from observed seismic data of small earthquakes. Based on the assumption of the Gaussian-mixture model of the Greens function, the newly-formulated algorithm is evaluated using synthetic seismic data along with those of the May 8, 1996 Mexico earthquake (M_c = 4.6). Since the estimated results closely match the theoretical input very well, the method is then employed to analyze the source time functions of the July 7, 1995 Pu-Li, Taiwan earthquake (M_L = 5.3). The stations triggered by this event were azimuthally well covered. Using the estimated source time functions, information pertaining to the directivity effect is readily obtained, and the actual fault plane of this event is identified, thus clearly indicating that this method provides a most efficient way to estimate the source time function of a small earthquake.Acknowledgment The authors would like to express their thanks to two anonymous reviewers for their valuable suggestions and Dr. I. Santamarias courteous assistance. They also appreciate the efforts of Drs. H.C. Chiu and R.J. Rau, who provided the seismic data and the fault plane solutions. The National Science Council, Taiwan, has supported this research (NSC 91-2119-M-194-011).     

Thermodynamics of gas and steam-blast eruptions

Eruptions of gas or steam and non-juvenile debris are common in volcanic and hydrothermal areas. From reports of non-juvenile eruptions or eruptive sequences world-wide, at least three types (or end-members) can be identified: (1) those involving rock and liquid water initially at boiling-point temperatures (boiling-point eruptions); (2) those powered by gas (primarily water vapor) at initial temperatures approaching magmatic (gas eruptions); and (3) those caused by rapid mixing of hot rock and ground- or surface water (mixing eruptions). For these eruption types, the mechanical energy released, final temperatures, liquid water contents and maximum theoretical velocities are compared by assuming that the erupting mixtures of rock and fluid thermally equilibrate, then decompress isentropically from initial, near-surface pressure (10 MPa) to atmospheric pressure. Maximum mechanical energy release is by far greatest for gas eruptions (1.3 MJ/kg of fluid-rock mixture)-about one-half that of an equivalent mass of gunpowder and one-fourth that of TNT. It is somewhat less for mixing eruptions (0.4 MJ/kg), and least for boiling-point eruptions (0.25 MJ/kg). The final water contents of crupted boiling-point mixtures are usually high, producing wet, sloppy deposits. Final erupted mixtures from gas eruptions are nearly always dry, whereas those from mixing eruptions vary from wet to dry. If all the enthalpy released in the eruptions were converted to kinetic energy, the final velocity (v _max) of these mixtures could range up to 670 m/s for boiling-point eruptions and 1820 m/s for gas eruptions (highest for high initial pressure and mass fractions of rock (m _r) near zero). For mixing eruptions, v _max ranges up to 1150 m/s. All observed eruption velocities are less than 400 m/s, largely because (1) most solid material is expelled when m _r is high, hence v _max is low; (2) observations are made of large blocks the velocities of which may be less than the average for the mixture; (3) heat from solid particles is not efficiently transferred to the fluid during the eruptions; and (4) maximum velocities are reduced by choked flow or friction in the conduit.     

Least squares inversion of one-dimensional magnetotelluric data: An assessment of procedures employed by Brown University

The pirmary objective of this paper is to review inversion algorithms employed to interpret magnetotelluric data by the geophysical/electromagnetics group at Brown University. Examples are presented from a variety of tectonic regimes — the Rio Grande rift, the Colorado Plateau, and Iceland. Following a brief tutorial in which the basic relations for the inverse prrolem are developed, we discuss the detectability and resolvability of various elements of the models. The correlation between certain model parameters is stressed, a phenomena well-known to interpreters. In this paper we emphasize the importance of identifying the precise range of values for which two or more parameters are coupled — these ranges are defined by what wer term saturation limits. Generalized inverse theory is employed to arrive at optimal models which are evaluated in terms of resolution and information matrices. The degree to which models fit a given dat base can be assessed using several quantitative approaches. We have found that it is impotant not only to determine the best fitting model, but also to identify those marginal solutions which also fall within the range of uncertainty of the data. The results from our direct invverse method agree favorably with those from Monte Carlo methods.     

Review of Ray Theory Applications in Modelling and Imaging of Seismic Data

Throughout the last twenty years, 3D seismic ray modelling has developed from a research tool to a more operational tool that has gained growing interest in the petroleum industry. Various areas of application have been established and new ones are under development. Many of these applications require a modelling system with flexible, robust and efficient modelling algorithms in the core. The present paper reviews the basic elements of such a system, based on the open model concept and the wavefront construction technique. In the latter, ervený's dynamic ray tracing is an intrinsic part. The modelling system can be used for generating ray attributes and synthetic seismograms for realistic 3D surveys with tens of thousands of shots and receivers. Moreover, some other types of application areas are illustrated: Production of Green's functions for prestack depth migration and hybrid modelling (combined ray and finite-difference modelling), attribute mapping and illumination analysis, both for survey planning and interpretation. Finally, the concepts of isochron rays and velocity rays related to seismic isochrons have been introduced recently, with very interesting future applications.