Asthenospheric parameters of dipping plate regions by magnetotelluric investigations

The multifrequency resolving capability of the electromagnetic surface impedance parameter, employed in magnetotelluric investigations, has been examined for an upper mantle model incorporating (1) a deep-seated lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary and (2) preferred orientations of olivine crystals in the lithosphere, usually associated with the subducting plate boundary zones. Numerical results display the quantitative errors in the resolution of various anisotropic and dipping plate conditions. It is found that (1) conductivity anisotropy, particularly with higher dips, causes a significant dispersion in the impedance values and higher resolving power, and (2) variations in the geometrical/physical parameters are reflected predominantly in the phase component of the surface impedance. The study has relevance to the understanding of the electrical nature of materials, its relationship with physical properties and associated geothermal and seismic activities in the dipping plate regions.