Year: 2008
Communications in Computational Physics, Vol. 3 (2008), Iss. 1 : pp. 1–32
Abstract
We provide an introduction to the use of the spectral-element method (SEM) in seismology. Following a brief review of the basic equations that govern seismic wave propagation, we discuss in some detail how these equations may be solved numerically based upon the SEM to address the forward problem in seismology. Examples of synthetic seismograms calculated based upon the SEM are compared to data recorded by the Global Seismographic Network. Finally, we discuss the challenge of using the remaining differences between the data and the synthetic seismograms to constrain better Earth models and source descriptions. This leads naturally to adjoint methods, which provide a practical approach to this formidable computational challenge and enables seismologists to tackle the inverse problem.
Journal Article Details
Publisher Name: Global Science Press
Language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/2008-CiCP-7840
Communications in Computational Physics, Vol. 3 (2008), Iss. 1 : pp. 1–32
Published online: 2008-01
AMS Subject Headings: Global Science Press
Copyright: COPYRIGHT: © Global Science Press
Pages: 32