Seismic forward modeling is a powerful aid when interpreting seismic profiles of complex structure. Considered here is the frontal fault system that is the boundary between the Anadarko basin and the Wichita Mountains.

COCORP deep seismic reflection data collected across the basin may reveal new evidence of thrust faulting in the frontal fault system. North-south lines 2 and 2a of the COCORP survey are interpreted using AIMS^TM (Advanced Interpretive Modeling System) installed on the University of Oklahoma's IBM 3081 computer. Line 2a stretches southward from the relatively undisturbed sedimentary rocks in the basin across the N85°W-trending frontal fault system to the south. The modeling begins at the north end of line 2a because of the relatively simple structural geometry and well control in that area.

End_Page 505------------------------------

The initial modeling began with an hypothesis based on well logs, COCORP data, and other geologic information. After the subsurface structures were defined, depth and velocity plots were produced. Normal incidence rays were then traced from each horizon to specified shot points. The ray-tracing plot gives a good indication of the quality of resolution one can expect from a particular subsurface geometry. The synthetic profile was produced by first applying a broad-band pulse, then applying a Ricker wavelet to each trace. A gain function was applied to enhance the section for interpretation. Forward seismic modeling in the Anadarko basin enhances interpretation by giving an idea of the seismic resolution one can expect and letting the interpreter test a geologic hypothesis against the eismic profiles.

End_of_Article - Last_Page 506------------