How Does the Seismic Tomography Method Work?

Seismic tomography is an imaging technique that uses seismic waves generated by earthquakes and explosions to create computer-generated, three- dimensional images of Earth's interior. If the Earth were of uniform composition and density seismic rays would travel in straight lines as shown in Figure 1.

What is seismic tomography used for?

Seismic tomography is a technique for imaging the subsurface of the Earth with seismic waves produced by earthquakes or explosions. P-, S-, and surface waves can be used for tomographic models of different resolutions based on seismic wavelength, wave source distance, and the seismograph array coverage.

How is a CT scan like seismic tomography?

Seismic tomography is like taking a CT scan (or CAT scan) of the Earth. ... These seismic waves travel through the Earth up to the surface, and when they reach the surface, they shake the ground. Seismometers record these up-and-down and side-to-side motions in the form of squiggly lines known as seismograms.