Rock Physics — Fundamentals

Seismic Acquisition Basics Introduction Seismic acquisition is the first step in the seismic workflow. It involves generating energy, recording wavefields, and designing surveys that capture the subsurface with the right resolution, coverage, and signal quality. Good acquisition design ensures that downstream processing and interpretation deliver reliable geological results. 1. Key Components Seismic acquisition relies on…

  What Is a Velocity Model?   Introduction Velocity models are essential for seismic processing, imaging, and time‑depth conversion. They describe how fast seismic waves travel through the subsurface and are used to correct, migrate, and interpret seismic data. Without an accurate velocity model, seismic images become distorted and unreliable. This article explains what velocity…

  Velocity Analysis — Full Overview Introduction Velocity analysis is the backbone of seismic processing. Accurate velocities are essential for stacking, migration, time‑depth conversion, and reservoir characterization. Without a reliable velocity model, seismic images become distorted and misleading. This article explains how velocity analysis works, why it matters, and the methods used to build accurate…

What Is AVO? (Amplitude Variation with Offset) Introduction Amplitude Variation with Offset (AVO) is one of the most powerful tools in seismic analysis. It examines how seismic amplitudes change with increasing offset or angle, providing insights into rock properties and fluid content. AVO is essential for hydrocarbon detection, reservoir characterization, and rock‑physics workflows. This article…

Seismic Processing — A Complete Overview Introduction Seismic processing is the backbone of modern subsurface imaging. It transforms raw field recordings — often noisy, irregular, and full of artifacts — into coherent seismic volumes that geoscientists can interpret with confidence. Without seismic processing, the subsurface would remain a blur of unorganized reflections. With it, we…