The Central India Tectonic Zone (CITZ) marks the trace of a major suture zone along which the south Indian and the north Indian continental blocks were assembled through subduction-accretion- collision tectonics in ...The Central India Tectonic Zone (CITZ) marks the trace of a major suture zone along which the south Indian and the north Indian continental blocks were assembled through subduction-accretion- collision tectonics in the Mesoproterozoic. The CITZ also witnessed the major, plume-related, late Cretaceous Deccan volcanic activity, covering substantial parts of the region with continental flood basalts and associated magmatic provinces. A number of major fault zones dissect the region, some of which are seismically active. Here we present results from gravity modeling along five regional profiles in the CITZ, and combine these results with magnetotelluric (MT) modeling results to explain the crustal architecture. The models show a resistive (more than 2000 Ω. m) and a normal density (2.70 g/cm3) upper crust suggesting dominant tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) composition. There is a marked correlation between both high-density (2.95 g/cm3) and low-density (2.65 g/cm3) regions with high conductive zones (〈80 Ω. m) in the deep crust. We infer the presence of an interconnected grain boundary network of fluids or fluid-hosted structures, where the conductors are associated with gravity lows. Based on the conductive nature, we propose that the lower crustal rocks are fluid reservoirs, where the fluids occur as trapped phase within minerals, fluid-filled porosity, or as fluid-rich structural conduits. We envisage that substantial volume of fluids were transferred from mantle into the lower crust through the younger plume-related Deccan volcanism, as well as the reactivation, fracturing and expulsion of fluids transported to depth during the Mesoproterozoic subduction tectonics. Migration of the fluids into brittle fault zones such as the Narmada North Fault and the Narmada South Fault resulted in generating high pore pressures and weakening of the faults, as reflected in the seismicity. This inference is also supported by the presence of broad gravity lows near these faults, as well as the low velocity in the lower crust beneath regions of recent major earthquakes within the CITZ.展开更多
The Aravalli-Delhi and Satpura Mobile Belts (ADMB and SMB) and the Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) in India form major Proterozoic mobile belts with adjoining cratons and contemporary basins. The most convincing f...The Aravalli-Delhi and Satpura Mobile Belts (ADMB and SMB) and the Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) in India form major Proterozoic mobile belts with adjoining cratons and contemporary basins. The most convincing features of the ADMB and the SMB have been the crustal layers dipping from both sides in opposite directions, crustal thickening ( -45 km) and high density and high conductivity rocks in upper/ lower crust associated with faults/thrusts. These observations indicate convergence while domal type re- flectors in the lower crust suggest an extensional rifting phase. In case of the SMB, even the remnant of the subducting slab characterized by high conductive and low density slab in lithospheric mantle up to - 120 km across the Purna-Godavari river faults has been traced which may be caused by fluids due to metamorphism. Subduction related intrusives of the SMB south of it and the ADMB west of it suggest N-S and E-W directed convergence and subduction during Meso-Neoproterozoic convergence. The simultaneous E-W conver- gence between the Bundelkhand craton and Marwar craton (Western Rajasthan) across the ADMB and the N-S convergence between the Bundelkhand craton and the Bhaodara and Dharwar cratons across the SMB suggest that the forces of convergence might have been in a NE SW direction with E-W and N-S compo- nents in the two cases, respectively. This explains the arcuate shaped collision zone of the ADMB and the SMB which are connected in their western part. The Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) also shows signatures orE -W directed Meso Neoproterozoic convergence with East Antarctica similar to ADMB in north India. Foreland basins such as Vindhyan (ADMB-SMB), and Kurnool (EGMB) Supergroups of rocks were formed during this convergence. Older rocks such as Aravalli (ADMB), Mahakoshal-Bijawar (SMB), and Cuddapah (EGMB) Supergroups of rocks with several basic/ultrabasic intrusives along these mobile belts, plausibly formed during an earlier episode of rifting during Paleo-Mesoproterozoic period. They are highly disturbed and deformed due to subsequent Meso-Neoproterozoic convergence. As these Paleoproterozoic basins are characterized by large scale basic/ultrabasic intrusives that are considerably wide spread, it is suggested that a plume/superplume might have existed under the Indian cratons at that time which was responsible for the breakup of these cratons. Further, the presence of older intrusives in these mobile belts suggests that there might have been some form of convergence also during Paleoproterozoic period.展开更多
The Precambrian shields and associated suture zones of the globe preserve important records of continental growth and destruction, the formation and closure of ocean basins, and the early evolution of the Earth in ter...The Precambrian shields and associated suture zones of the globe preserve important records of continental growth and destruction, the formation and closure of ocean basins, and the early evolution of the Earth in terms of tectonics, resources, and environment. They also offer critical clues on the nature and style of plate tectonics, mantle dynamics and crust-mantle interaction. In this thematic section of Geoscience Frontiers, a set of four contri- butions are assembled that provide a window to the mechanisms and processes in Precambrian shields and associated suture zones from a geological and geophysical perspective.展开更多
The textural and mineralogical characteristics of subsurface sediments along with Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data collected along the Western margin of India were used to understand the depositional environments a...The textural and mineralogical characteristics of subsurface sediments along with Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data collected along the Western margin of India were used to understand the depositional environments and the provenance of sediments. Textural attributes such as mean, standard deviation, skewness and Kurtosis show fluctuations due to fluvio-marine interaction and it is well understood that the bottom sediments are enriched with muddy sand, which may be deposited by mean of tidal invasion. The abundance of very coarse silt to very fine sand indicates the prevalence of low energy environment. The Linear Discriminate Function analysis indicates the fluvio marine deposition of sediments under low energy condition. GPR data upto a depth of 5 m shows the stratigraphic sequences of very fine sands and coarse silt. Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating of sediments implies that the tidal sediments had deposited between ~30 ± 1 and ~90 ± 4 years before Present. XRD studies results the dominance of K-feldspar and deficiency of clay minerals, indicating that most of the sediments are derived from hinterland. Studies indicate that the Provenance of sediments in the Mandvi area is not related to Indus delta even though a considerable part of Gulf sediments are deposited by the Indus River.展开更多
The Deccan Syneclise is considered to have significant hydrocarbon potential. However, significant hydrocarbon discoveries, particularly for Mesozoic sequences, have not been established through conventional explorati...The Deccan Syneclise is considered to have significant hydrocarbon potential. However, significant hydrocarbon discoveries, particularly for Mesozoic sequences, have not been established through conventional exploration due to the thick basalt cover over Mesozoic sedimentary rocks. In this study, near-surface geochemical data are used to understand the petroleum system and also investigate type of source for hydrocarbons generation of the study area. Soil samples were collected from favorable areas identified by integrated geophysical studies. The compositional and isotopic signatures of adsorbed gaseous hydrocarbons (methane through butane) were used as surface indicators of pe- troleum micro-seepages. An analysis of 75 near-surface soil-gas samples was carried out for light hydrocarbons (C_1-C_4) and their carbon isotopes from the western part of Tapti graben, Deccan Syneclise, India. The geochemical results reveal sites or clusters of sites containing anomalously high concentrations of light hydrocarbon gases. High concentrations of adsorbed thermogenic methane (C1 518 ppb) and ethane plus higher hydrocarbons (∑C2+ = 977 ppb) were observed. Statistical analysis shows that samples from 13% of the samples contain anomalously high concentrations of light hydrocarbons in the soil-gas constituents. This seepage suggests largest magnitude of soil gas anomalies might be generated/source from Mesozoic sedimentary rocks, beneath Deccan Traps. The carbon isotopic composition of methane, ethane and propane ranges are from 22.5‰to -30.2‰ PDB, -18.0‰ to 27.1‰,, PDB and 16.9‰-32.1‰ PDB respectively, which are in thermogenic source. Surface soil sample represents the intersection of a migration conduit from the deep subsurface to the surface connected to sub-trappean Mesozoic sedimentary rocks. Prominent hydrocarbon concentra- tions were associated with dykes, lineaments and presented on thinner basaltic cover in the study area, which probably acts as channel for the micro-seepage of hydrocarbons.展开更多
Abstract Greenstone belts of the eastern Dharwar Craton, India are reinterpreted as composite tecto- nostratigraphic terranes of accreted plume-derived and convergent margin-derived magmatic sequences based on new hig...Abstract Greenstone belts of the eastern Dharwar Craton, India are reinterpreted as composite tecto- nostratigraphic terranes of accreted plume-derived and convergent margin-derived magmatic sequences based on new high-precision elemental data. The former are dominated by a komatiite plus Mg-tholeiitic basalt volcanic association, with deep water siliciclastic and banded iron formation (BIF) sedimentary rocks. Plumes melted at 〈90 km under thin rifted continental lithosphere to preserve intrao- ceanic and continental margin aspects. Associated alkaline basalts record subduction-recycling of Me- soarchean oceanic crust, incubated in the asthenosphere, and erupted coevally with Mg basalts from a heterogeneous mantle plume. Together, komatiites-Mg basalts-alkaline basalts plot along the Phanero- zoic mantle array in Th/Yb versus Nb/Yb coordinate space, representing zoned plumes, establishing that these reservoirs were present in the Neoarchean mantle. Convergent margin magmatic associations are dominated by tholeiitic to calc-alkaline basalts compo- sitionally similar to recent intraoceanic arcs. As well, boninitic flows sourced in extremely depleted mantle are present, and the association of arc basalts with Mg-andesites-Nb enriched basalts-adakites documented from Cenozoic arcs characterized by subduction of young (〈20 Ma), hot, oceanic litho- sphere. Consequently, Cenozoic style "hot" subduction was operating in the Neoarchean. These diverse volcanic associations were assembled to give composite terranes in a subduction-accretion orogen at -2.7 Ga, coevally with a global accretionary orogen at -2.7 Ga, and associated orogenic gold mineralization.展开更多
Geo-microbial prospecting for hydrocarbons is an exploration method based on the seepage of light gaseous hydrocarbons from oil/gas reservoirs to the surface and their utilization by hydrocarbon oxidizing bacteria. Th...Geo-microbial prospecting for hydrocarbons is an exploration method based on the seepage of light gaseous hydrocarbons from oil/gas reservoirs to the surface and their utilization by hydrocarbon oxidizing bacteria. These bacteria utilize hydrocarbon gases as their sole source of food and are found to be enriched in the near surface soils/sediments above the oil and gas reservoirs. The detection of anomalous populations of n-pentane and n-hexane oxidizing bacteria in the surface soils can help to evaluate the prospects for hydrocarbon exploration. A geo-microbial survey has been carried out in the Bikaner Nagaur basin to investigate the prospects for hydrocarbon exploration. In the present study, bacterial counts for n-pentane utilizing bacteria range between 2.0× 10^2 and 1.26× 10^6 cfu/gm and n-hexane utilizing bacteria range between 2.0× 10^2 and 1.21 × 10^6 cfu/gm. The bacterial concentration distribution maps show four distinct anomalies in the study area. The possibility of discovering oil or gas reservoirs using the microbiological method is emphasized by the tact that the hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria range between 103 and 106 cfu/gm in soil/sediment receiving hydrocarbon micro-seepages. In the present study area of the Bikaner Nagaur basin, n-pentane and n-hexane utilizing bacteria are found between 105 and 106 cfu/gm of soil sample, which is significant and thereby substantiates the seepage of lighter hydrocarbon accumulations from oil and gas reservoirs. Geo-microbial prospecting studies suggest that hydrocarbon micro-seepage of subsurface origin is present in the study area and indicate that the area has positive prospects for petroleum exploration.展开更多
Broad-band and long period magnetotelluric measurements made at 63 locations along -500 km long Chikmagalur-Kavali profile,that cut across the Dharwar craton (DC) and Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) in south India,is ...Broad-band and long period magnetotelluric measurements made at 63 locations along -500 km long Chikmagalur-Kavali profile,that cut across the Dharwar craton (DC) and Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) in south India,is modelled to examine the lithosphere architecture of the cratonic domain and define tectonic boundaries.The 2-D resistivity model shows moderately conductive features that intersperse a highly resistive background of crystalline rocks and spatially connect to the exposed schist belts or granitic intrusions in the DC.These features are therefore interpreted as images of fossil pathways of the volcanic emplacements associated with the greenstone belt and granite suite formation exposed in the region.A near vertical conductive feature in the upper mantle under the Chitradurga Shear Zone represents the Archean suture between the western and eastern blocks of DC.Although thick (-200 km) cratonic (highly resistive) lithosphere is preserved,significant part of the cratonic lithosphere below the western DC is modified due to plume-continental lithosphere interactions during the CretaceouseTertiary period.A west-verging moderately conductive feature imaged beneath EGMB lithosphere is interpreted as the remnant of the Proterozoic collision process between the Indian land mass and East Antarctica.Thin (-120 km) lithosphere is seen below the EGMB,which form the exterior margin of the India shield subsequent to its separation from East Antarctica through rifting and opening of the Indian Ocean in the Cretaceous.展开更多
Regional surface gravity data and global satellite magnetic data have been utilized to generate a preliminary model of the crustal structure along a southwest-northeast profile (Gadra-Fatehpur) through western Rajas...Regional surface gravity data and global satellite magnetic data have been utilized to generate a preliminary model of the crustal structure along a southwest-northeast profile (Gadra-Fatehpur) through western Rajasthan.The study area represents the western part of the Indian continental landmass which has undergone several major episodes of repeated subduction/collision,plume traces and rifting from Archaean to recent times.The temporal and spatial relationship between the various geotectonic provinces is quite complex,thereby limiting the emergence of a suitable crustal structure model for this region.Exposures of the Malani Igneous Suite (MIS),a product of bimodal volcanism (~780 Ma),and considered to be the third largest felsic magmatic province of the world,is evident along the profile and also to the southwest of the study area.The easternmost part of the profile is close to the DAFB (Delhi Aravalli Fold Belt),a Proterozoic orogenic belt.This study probes the geometry of the different crustal units in terms of density and susceptibility variations in order to decipher the imprints of the major tectonic processes the region has undergone.In order to decipher the crustal geometry of the Gadra-Fatehpur profile,two NW-SE gravity and magnetic profile vertical sections (A-A' in the south and B-B' in the north) are modelled on the basis of the constraints provided from previous seismic models.The crustal model of the Gadra-Fatehpur profile is composed of alluvium,Tertiary sediments,MIS,Marwar Supergroup,low-density layers (LDLs) and the middle-lower crustal layers,with a distinct change in configuration from the southwest to northeast.The Moho dips from SW to NE,the MIS in the SW gives way to the thick pile of the Marwar Supergroup to the NE.The evolution of MIS has been suggested to have occurred as a consequence of delamination of the upper mantle.LDLs are incorporated in Gadra-Fatehpur model.In the SW,LDL (2550 kg/m3) lies below the MIS in the NE,another LDL (2604 kg/m3) is depicted below the mid-crustal layer.展开更多
The Precambrian basement complex in the southernmost part of North-Central Nigeria is underlain by migmatitic banded gneisses, granitic intrusions and dykes of dolerite, rhyolite porphyry and pegmatite. The rocks are ...The Precambrian basement complex in the southernmost part of North-Central Nigeria is underlain by migmatitic banded gneisses, granitic intrusions and dykes of dolerite, rhyolite porphyry and pegmatite. The rocks are generally felsic, containing modal and normative hypersthene, as well as normative corundum. The basement complex has experienced high-grade regional metamorphism as indicated by the presence of hypersthene and plagioclase of andesine composition. Anatectic melting is suggested by the occurrence of ptygmatic folds, folded gneissose foliation, numerous quartzo-feldspathic veins and lenses of dark-colured, micaceous schistose rocks. Geochemically, the rocks have magnesian, calc-alkalic and strongly peraluminous characteristics. Their overall characteristics suggest derivation from progressive (fractional) partial melting of pelitic rocks during high-grade regional metamorphism, possibly associated with intense hydrothermal activities. The magnesian characteristics reflect close affinity to relatively hydrous, oxidizing melts and source regions in settings broadly related to subduction.展开更多
The occurrence of rhythmic layering of chromite and host serpentinites in the deformed layered igneous complexes has been noticed in the Nuggihalli schist belt (NSB) in the western Dharwar craton, Karnataka, South I...The occurrence of rhythmic layering of chromite and host serpentinites in the deformed layered igneous complexes has been noticed in the Nuggihalli schist belt (NSB) in the western Dharwar craton, Karnataka, South India. For this study, the chromitite rock samples were collected from Jambur, Tagadur, Bhakatarhalli, Ranganbetta and Byrapur in the NSB. Petrography and ore microscopic studies on chromite show intense cataclasis and alteration to ferritchromite. The ferritchromite compositions are characterized by higher Cr number (Cr/[Cr+AI]) (0.68-0.98) and lower Mg number (Mg/[Mg+Fe]) (0.33-0.82) ratios in ferritchromite compared to that of parent chromite. The formation process for the ferritchromite is thought to be related to the exchange of Mg, AI, Cr, and Fe between the chromite, surrounding silicates (serpentines, chlorites), and fluid during serpentinization.展开更多
We have analyzed the July 15, 2009, Fiordland earthquake (Mw 7.8), which occurred in the southwestern part of the South Island of New Zealand. This thrust-related earthquake in the southern Fiordland subduction zone...We have analyzed the July 15, 2009, Fiordland earthquake (Mw 7.8), which occurred in the southwestern part of the South Island of New Zealand. This thrust-related earthquake in the southern Fiordland subduction zone is the largest New Zealand earthquake in the past 80 years. We have constrained a rupture model for this earthquake using coseismic offsets derived from the continuous geodetic network (Global Positioning System) of the New Zealand Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS Science). Our analysis concludes that this earthquake significantly increased the Coulomb stress on the overriding plate, particularly on the offshore portion of the Alpine fault.展开更多
Oldest rocks are sparsely distributed within the Dharwar Craton and little is known about their involvement in the sedimentary sequences which are present in the Archean greenstone successions and the Proterozoic Cudd...Oldest rocks are sparsely distributed within the Dharwar Craton and little is known about their involvement in the sedimentary sequences which are present in the Archean greenstone successions and the Proterozoic Cuddapah basin.Stromatolitic carbonates are well preserved in the Neoarchean greenstone belts of Dharwar Craton and Cuddapah Basin of Peninsular India displaying varied morphological and geochemical characteristics.In this study,we report results from U-Pb geochronology and trace element composition of the detrital zircons from stromatolitic carbonates present within the Dharwar Craton and Cuddapah basin to understand the provenance and time of accretion and deposition.The UPb ages of the detrital zircons from the Bhimasamudra and Marikanve stromatolites of the Chitradurga greenstone belt of Dharwar Craton display ages of 3426±26 Ma to 2650±38 Ma whereas the Sandur stromatolites gave an age of 3508±29 Ma to 2926±36 Ma suggesting Paleo-to Neoarchean provenance.The U-Pb detrital zircons of the Tadpatri stromatolites gave an age of 2761±31 Ma to1672±38 Ma suggesting Neoarchean to Mesoproterozoic provenance.The Rare Earth Element(REE)patterns of the studied detrital zircons from Archean Dharwar Craton and Proterozoic Cuddapah basin display depletion in light rare earth elements(LREE)and enrichment in heavy rare earth elements(HREE)with pronounced positive Ce and negative Eu anomalies,typical of magmatic zircons.The trace element composition and their relationship collectively indicate a mixed granitoid and mafic source for both the Dharwar and Cuddapah stromatolites.The 3508±29 Ma age of the detrital zircons support the existence of 3.5 Ga crust in the Western Dharwar Craton.The overall detrital zircon ages(3.5-2.7 Ga)obtained from the stromatolitic carbonates of Archean greenstone belts and Proterozoic Cuddapah basin(2.7-1.6 Ga)collectively reflect on^800-900 Ma duration for the Precambrian stromatolite deposition in the Dharwar Craton.展开更多
We estimate the shear wave splitting parameters vis-a-vis the thicknesses of the continental lithosphere beneath the two permanent seismic broadband stations located at Dhanbad(DHN) and Bokaro(BOKR) in the Eastern Ind...We estimate the shear wave splitting parameters vis-a-vis the thicknesses of the continental lithosphere beneath the two permanent seismic broadband stations located at Dhanbad(DHN) and Bokaro(BOKR) in the Eastern Indian Shield region. Broadband seismic data of 146 and 131 teleseismic earthquake events recorded at DHN and BOKR stations during 2007-2014 were analyzed for the present measurements.The study is carried out using rotation-correlation and transverse component minimization methods. We retain our "Good", "Fair" and "Null" measurements, and estimate the splitting parameters using 13 "Good" results for DHN and 10 "Good" results for BOKR stations. The average splitting parameters(φ,δt)for DHN and BOKR stations are found to be 50.76°±5.46° and 0.82±0.2 s and 56.30°±5.07° and0.95 ± 0.17 s, and the estimated average thicknesses of the anisotropic layers beneath these two stations are ~94 and ~109 km,respectively. The measured deviation of azimuth of the fast axis direction(0)from the absolute motion of the Indian plate ranges from ~8° to 14°. The measured deviation of azimuth of the fast axis direction(0) from the absolute motion of the Indian plate ranges from ~8° to 14°. The eastward deviation of the fast axis azimuths from absolute plate motion direction is interpreted to be caused by induced outflow from the asthenosphere. Further, the delay time found in the present analysis is close to the global average for continental shield areas, and also coherent with other studies for Indian shield regions. The five "Null" results and the lower delay time of ~0.5-0.6 s might be indicating multilayer anisotropy existing in the mantle lithosphere beneath the study area.展开更多
P-wave velocity images are determined under the Mount Erebus hotspot,Antarctica by using teleseismic tomography.Our results show a prominent low-velocity(low-v)anomaly of nearly circular symmetry(about 250-300 km in d...P-wave velocity images are determined under the Mount Erebus hotspot,Antarctica by using teleseismic tomography.Our results show a prominent low-velocity(low-v)anomaly of nearly circular symmetry(about 250-300 km in diameter)to about 200 km depth under the Mount Erebus volcanic region,which further extends down to~400 km as a narrow tilted column.The observed low-v anomaly beneath the Mount Erebus volcano can be an expression of a thermal anomaly of deep origin.展开更多
The long-term seepage of hydrocarbons, either as macroseepage or microseepage, can set up near-surface oxidation reduction zones that favor the development of a diverse array of chemical and mineralogical changes. The...The long-term seepage of hydrocarbons, either as macroseepage or microseepage, can set up near-surface oxidation reduction zones that favor the development of a diverse array of chemical and mineralogical changes. The bacterial oxidation of light hydrocarbons can directly or indirectly bring about significant changes in the values of pH and Eh of the surrounding environment, thereby also changing the stability fields of the different mineral species present in that environment. The paper reports the role of hydrocarbon microseepage in surface alterations of trace metal concentrations. In this study trace metal alterations were mapped that appear to be associated with hydrocarbon microseepages in the oil/ gas fields. A total of 50 soil samples were collected near oil and gas fields of the Tatipaka and Pasarlapudi areas of the Krishna Godavari Basin, Andhra Pradesh. The soil samples were collected from a depth of 2-2.5 m. The paper reports the chemical alterations associated with trace metals in soils that are related to hydrocarbon microseepages above some of the major oil and gas fields of this petroliferous region. Trace metals, such as scandium (Sc), vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), barium (Ba) and strontium (Sr), in soil samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma- mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The concentrations of Sc (8 to 40 mg/kg), V (197 to 489 mg/kg), Cr (106 to 287 mg/kg), Co (31 to 52 mg/kg), Ni (65 to 110 mg/kg), Cu (88 to 131 mg/kg), Zn (88 to 471 mg/kg), Ba (263 to 3,091 mg/kg) and Sr (119 to 218 mg/kg) were obtained. It was observed that the concentrations of trace elements were tremendously increased when they were compared with their normal concentrations in soils. The analysis of adsorbed soil gas showed the presence of high concentrations of YC2+ (C2H6, C3H8 and n-C4H10) ranging from 7 to 222 μg/kg respectively. Integrated studies of trace elements over adsorbed light gaseous hydrocarbons (2C2+) anomalies showed good correlation with the existing oil and gas wells. The carbon isotopic composition of δ13C1 of the samples ranges between -36.6%o to -22.7‰ (Pee Dee Belemnite) values indicate thermogenic origin, which presents convincing evidence that the adsorbed soil gases collected from these sediments are of catagenetic origin. The increase in the concentrations of trace metals near oil/gas producing areas, suggests a soil chemical change to a reducing environment, presumably due to the influence of hydrocarbon microseepage, which could be applied with other geoscientific data to identify areas of future hydrocarbon exploration in frontier areas.展开更多
Earthquakes began to occur in Koyna region (India) soon after the filling of Koyna Dam in 1962. In the present study, three datasets 1964-1993, 1993-1995, and 1996-1997 are analyzed to study the b-value and fractal ...Earthquakes began to occur in Koyna region (India) soon after the filling of Koyna Dam in 1962. In the present study, three datasets 1964-1993, 1993-1995, and 1996-1997 are analyzed to study the b-value and fractal dimension. The b-value is calculated using the Gutenberg- Richter relationship and fractal dimension Dcorr. using correlation integral method. The estimated b-value and Dcorr. of this region before 1993 are found to be in good agreement with previously reported studies. In the sub- sequent years after 1995, the b-value shows an increase. The estimated b-values of this region are found within the limits of global average. Also, the pattern of spatial clustering of earthquakes show increase in clustering and migration along the three zones called North-East Zone, South-East Zone (SEZ), and Warna Seismic Zone. The earthquake events having depth ≤5 km are largely confined to SEZ. After 1993, the Dcorr. shows decrease, implying that earth- quake activity gets clustered. This seismic clustering could be helpful for earthquake forecasting.展开更多
This study attempts to simulate the spatial heterogeneity of infiltration in a drainage basin using digital elevation models. Infiltration capacity is one of the controlling factors in the formation of stream channels...This study attempts to simulate the spatial heterogeneity of infiltration in a drainage basin using digital elevation models. Infiltration capacity is one of the controlling factors in the formation of stream channels. Channel formation is also a function of the slope and the contributing area. Natural stream channels, if properly graded and adjusted to the present climate, reflect the interactions of local slope, contributing area, and permeability of surface materials. Channel networks can be delineated from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) using a variety of algorithms using different thresholds for channel initiation. These algorithms delineate a channel network on the basis of local slope, curvature, and contributing area, without considering the permeability of surface cover. Hence, the difference in the structure of the two drainage networks,?i.e.?the surveyed drainage network obtained from field observation and the simulated network generated from the DEM, is indicative of the spatial heterogeneities in the permeability of the surface cover as shown in this paper. Spatially variable drainage density maps corresponding to the two networks have been used here to obtain normalized difference maps that characterize the potential infiltration anomalies within the catchment. The simulated spatial pattern is compared with the actual infiltration measurements in the field using infiltration tests. Strong positive correlation between the observed and modeled infiltration confirms the effectiveness of this technique in the rapid assessment of potential infiltration variability.展开更多
文摘The Central India Tectonic Zone (CITZ) marks the trace of a major suture zone along which the south Indian and the north Indian continental blocks were assembled through subduction-accretion- collision tectonics in the Mesoproterozoic. The CITZ also witnessed the major, plume-related, late Cretaceous Deccan volcanic activity, covering substantial parts of the region with continental flood basalts and associated magmatic provinces. A number of major fault zones dissect the region, some of which are seismically active. Here we present results from gravity modeling along five regional profiles in the CITZ, and combine these results with magnetotelluric (MT) modeling results to explain the crustal architecture. The models show a resistive (more than 2000 Ω. m) and a normal density (2.70 g/cm3) upper crust suggesting dominant tonalite-trondhjemite-granodiorite (TTG) composition. There is a marked correlation between both high-density (2.95 g/cm3) and low-density (2.65 g/cm3) regions with high conductive zones (〈80 Ω. m) in the deep crust. We infer the presence of an interconnected grain boundary network of fluids or fluid-hosted structures, where the conductors are associated with gravity lows. Based on the conductive nature, we propose that the lower crustal rocks are fluid reservoirs, where the fluids occur as trapped phase within minerals, fluid-filled porosity, or as fluid-rich structural conduits. We envisage that substantial volume of fluids were transferred from mantle into the lower crust through the younger plume-related Deccan volcanism, as well as the reactivation, fracturing and expulsion of fluids transported to depth during the Mesoproterozoic subduction tectonics. Migration of the fluids into brittle fault zones such as the Narmada North Fault and the Narmada South Fault resulted in generating high pore pressures and weakening of the faults, as reflected in the seismicity. This inference is also supported by the presence of broad gravity lows near these faults, as well as the low velocity in the lower crust beneath regions of recent major earthquakes within the CITZ.
基金CSIR for Emeritus Scientist Scheme and to the Ministry of Earth Sciences for the project, MoES/PO(Seismo)/23(646)/2007
文摘The Aravalli-Delhi and Satpura Mobile Belts (ADMB and SMB) and the Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) in India form major Proterozoic mobile belts with adjoining cratons and contemporary basins. The most convincing features of the ADMB and the SMB have been the crustal layers dipping from both sides in opposite directions, crustal thickening ( -45 km) and high density and high conductivity rocks in upper/ lower crust associated with faults/thrusts. These observations indicate convergence while domal type re- flectors in the lower crust suggest an extensional rifting phase. In case of the SMB, even the remnant of the subducting slab characterized by high conductive and low density slab in lithospheric mantle up to - 120 km across the Purna-Godavari river faults has been traced which may be caused by fluids due to metamorphism. Subduction related intrusives of the SMB south of it and the ADMB west of it suggest N-S and E-W directed convergence and subduction during Meso-Neoproterozoic convergence. The simultaneous E-W conver- gence between the Bundelkhand craton and Marwar craton (Western Rajasthan) across the ADMB and the N-S convergence between the Bundelkhand craton and the Bhaodara and Dharwar cratons across the SMB suggest that the forces of convergence might have been in a NE SW direction with E-W and N-S compo- nents in the two cases, respectively. This explains the arcuate shaped collision zone of the ADMB and the SMB which are connected in their western part. The Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) also shows signatures orE -W directed Meso Neoproterozoic convergence with East Antarctica similar to ADMB in north India. Foreland basins such as Vindhyan (ADMB-SMB), and Kurnool (EGMB) Supergroups of rocks were formed during this convergence. Older rocks such as Aravalli (ADMB), Mahakoshal-Bijawar (SMB), and Cuddapah (EGMB) Supergroups of rocks with several basic/ultrabasic intrusives along these mobile belts, plausibly formed during an earlier episode of rifting during Paleo-Mesoproterozoic period. They are highly disturbed and deformed due to subsequent Meso-Neoproterozoic convergence. As these Paleoproterozoic basins are characterized by large scale basic/ultrabasic intrusives that are considerably wide spread, it is suggested that a plume/superplume might have existed under the Indian cratons at that time which was responsible for the breakup of these cratons. Further, the presence of older intrusives in these mobile belts suggests that there might have been some form of convergence also during Paleoproterozoic period.
文摘The Precambrian shields and associated suture zones of the globe preserve important records of continental growth and destruction, the formation and closure of ocean basins, and the early evolution of the Earth in terms of tectonics, resources, and environment. They also offer critical clues on the nature and style of plate tectonics, mantle dynamics and crust-mantle interaction. In this thematic section of Geoscience Frontiers, a set of four contri- butions are assembled that provide a window to the mechanisms and processes in Precambrian shields and associated suture zones from a geological and geophysical perspective.
文摘The textural and mineralogical characteristics of subsurface sediments along with Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data collected along the Western margin of India were used to understand the depositional environments and the provenance of sediments. Textural attributes such as mean, standard deviation, skewness and Kurtosis show fluctuations due to fluvio-marine interaction and it is well understood that the bottom sediments are enriched with muddy sand, which may be deposited by mean of tidal invasion. The abundance of very coarse silt to very fine sand indicates the prevalence of low energy environment. The Linear Discriminate Function analysis indicates the fluvio marine deposition of sediments under low energy condition. GPR data upto a depth of 5 m shows the stratigraphic sequences of very fine sands and coarse silt. Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating of sediments implies that the tidal sediments had deposited between ~30 ± 1 and ~90 ± 4 years before Present. XRD studies results the dominance of K-feldspar and deficiency of clay minerals, indicating that most of the sediments are derived from hinterland. Studies indicate that the Provenance of sediments in the Mandvi area is not related to Indus delta even though a considerable part of Gulf sediments are deposited by the Indus River.
文摘The Deccan Syneclise is considered to have significant hydrocarbon potential. However, significant hydrocarbon discoveries, particularly for Mesozoic sequences, have not been established through conventional exploration due to the thick basalt cover over Mesozoic sedimentary rocks. In this study, near-surface geochemical data are used to understand the petroleum system and also investigate type of source for hydrocarbons generation of the study area. Soil samples were collected from favorable areas identified by integrated geophysical studies. The compositional and isotopic signatures of adsorbed gaseous hydrocarbons (methane through butane) were used as surface indicators of pe- troleum micro-seepages. An analysis of 75 near-surface soil-gas samples was carried out for light hydrocarbons (C_1-C_4) and their carbon isotopes from the western part of Tapti graben, Deccan Syneclise, India. The geochemical results reveal sites or clusters of sites containing anomalously high concentrations of light hydrocarbon gases. High concentrations of adsorbed thermogenic methane (C1 518 ppb) and ethane plus higher hydrocarbons (∑C2+ = 977 ppb) were observed. Statistical analysis shows that samples from 13% of the samples contain anomalously high concentrations of light hydrocarbons in the soil-gas constituents. This seepage suggests largest magnitude of soil gas anomalies might be generated/source from Mesozoic sedimentary rocks, beneath Deccan Traps. The carbon isotopic composition of methane, ethane and propane ranges are from 22.5‰to -30.2‰ PDB, -18.0‰ to 27.1‰,, PDB and 16.9‰-32.1‰ PDB respectively, which are in thermogenic source. Surface soil sample represents the intersection of a migration conduit from the deep subsurface to the surface connected to sub-trappean Mesozoic sedimentary rocks. Prominent hydrocarbon concentra- tions were associated with dykes, lineaments and presented on thinner basaltic cover in the study area, which probably acts as channel for the micro-seepage of hydrocarbons.
基金Department of Science and Technology(DST) for funding the Projects on Dharwar Craton
文摘Abstract Greenstone belts of the eastern Dharwar Craton, India are reinterpreted as composite tecto- nostratigraphic terranes of accreted plume-derived and convergent margin-derived magmatic sequences based on new high-precision elemental data. The former are dominated by a komatiite plus Mg-tholeiitic basalt volcanic association, with deep water siliciclastic and banded iron formation (BIF) sedimentary rocks. Plumes melted at 〈90 km under thin rifted continental lithosphere to preserve intrao- ceanic and continental margin aspects. Associated alkaline basalts record subduction-recycling of Me- soarchean oceanic crust, incubated in the asthenosphere, and erupted coevally with Mg basalts from a heterogeneous mantle plume. Together, komatiites-Mg basalts-alkaline basalts plot along the Phanero- zoic mantle array in Th/Yb versus Nb/Yb coordinate space, representing zoned plumes, establishing that these reservoirs were present in the Neoarchean mantle. Convergent margin magmatic associations are dominated by tholeiitic to calc-alkaline basalts compo- sitionally similar to recent intraoceanic arcs. As well, boninitic flows sourced in extremely depleted mantle are present, and the association of arc basalts with Mg-andesites-Nb enriched basalts-adakites documented from Cenozoic arcs characterized by subduction of young (〈20 Ma), hot, oceanic litho- sphere. Consequently, Cenozoic style "hot" subduction was operating in the Neoarchean. These diverse volcanic associations were assembled to give composite terranes in a subduction-accretion orogen at -2.7 Ga, coevally with a global accretionary orogen at -2.7 Ga, and associated orogenic gold mineralization.
文摘Geo-microbial prospecting for hydrocarbons is an exploration method based on the seepage of light gaseous hydrocarbons from oil/gas reservoirs to the surface and their utilization by hydrocarbon oxidizing bacteria. These bacteria utilize hydrocarbon gases as their sole source of food and are found to be enriched in the near surface soils/sediments above the oil and gas reservoirs. The detection of anomalous populations of n-pentane and n-hexane oxidizing bacteria in the surface soils can help to evaluate the prospects for hydrocarbon exploration. A geo-microbial survey has been carried out in the Bikaner Nagaur basin to investigate the prospects for hydrocarbon exploration. In the present study, bacterial counts for n-pentane utilizing bacteria range between 2.0× 10^2 and 1.26× 10^6 cfu/gm and n-hexane utilizing bacteria range between 2.0× 10^2 and 1.21 × 10^6 cfu/gm. The bacterial concentration distribution maps show four distinct anomalies in the study area. The possibility of discovering oil or gas reservoirs using the microbiological method is emphasized by the tact that the hydrocarbon-oxidizing bacteria range between 103 and 106 cfu/gm in soil/sediment receiving hydrocarbon micro-seepages. In the present study area of the Bikaner Nagaur basin, n-pentane and n-hexane utilizing bacteria are found between 105 and 106 cfu/gm of soil sample, which is significant and thereby substantiates the seepage of lighter hydrocarbon accumulations from oil and gas reservoirs. Geo-microbial prospecting studies suggest that hydrocarbon micro-seepage of subsurface origin is present in the study area and indicate that the area has positive prospects for petroleum exploration.
基金under the Supra Institutional Project (SIP-0012)carried under INDEX (PSC0204) project,funded by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi, India
文摘Broad-band and long period magnetotelluric measurements made at 63 locations along -500 km long Chikmagalur-Kavali profile,that cut across the Dharwar craton (DC) and Eastern Ghat Mobile Belt (EGMB) in south India,is modelled to examine the lithosphere architecture of the cratonic domain and define tectonic boundaries.The 2-D resistivity model shows moderately conductive features that intersperse a highly resistive background of crystalline rocks and spatially connect to the exposed schist belts or granitic intrusions in the DC.These features are therefore interpreted as images of fossil pathways of the volcanic emplacements associated with the greenstone belt and granite suite formation exposed in the region.A near vertical conductive feature in the upper mantle under the Chitradurga Shear Zone represents the Archean suture between the western and eastern blocks of DC.Although thick (-200 km) cratonic (highly resistive) lithosphere is preserved,significant part of the cratonic lithosphere below the western DC is modified due to plume-continental lithosphere interactions during the CretaceouseTertiary period.A west-verging moderately conductive feature imaged beneath EGMB lithosphere is interpreted as the remnant of the Proterozoic collision process between the Indian land mass and East Antarctica.Thin (-120 km) lithosphere is seen below the EGMB,which form the exterior margin of the India shield subsequent to its separation from East Antarctica through rifting and opening of the Indian Ocean in the Cretaceous.
文摘Regional surface gravity data and global satellite magnetic data have been utilized to generate a preliminary model of the crustal structure along a southwest-northeast profile (Gadra-Fatehpur) through western Rajasthan.The study area represents the western part of the Indian continental landmass which has undergone several major episodes of repeated subduction/collision,plume traces and rifting from Archaean to recent times.The temporal and spatial relationship between the various geotectonic provinces is quite complex,thereby limiting the emergence of a suitable crustal structure model for this region.Exposures of the Malani Igneous Suite (MIS),a product of bimodal volcanism (~780 Ma),and considered to be the third largest felsic magmatic province of the world,is evident along the profile and also to the southwest of the study area.The easternmost part of the profile is close to the DAFB (Delhi Aravalli Fold Belt),a Proterozoic orogenic belt.This study probes the geometry of the different crustal units in terms of density and susceptibility variations in order to decipher the imprints of the major tectonic processes the region has undergone.In order to decipher the crustal geometry of the Gadra-Fatehpur profile,two NW-SE gravity and magnetic profile vertical sections (A-A' in the south and B-B' in the north) are modelled on the basis of the constraints provided from previous seismic models.The crustal model of the Gadra-Fatehpur profile is composed of alluvium,Tertiary sediments,MIS,Marwar Supergroup,low-density layers (LDLs) and the middle-lower crustal layers,with a distinct change in configuration from the southwest to northeast.The Moho dips from SW to NE,the MIS in the SW gives way to the thick pile of the Marwar Supergroup to the NE.The evolution of MIS has been suggested to have occurred as a consequence of delamination of the upper mantle.LDLs are incorporated in Gadra-Fatehpur model.In the SW,LDL (2550 kg/m3) lies below the MIS in the NE,another LDL (2604 kg/m3) is depicted below the mid-crustal layer.
文摘The Precambrian basement complex in the southernmost part of North-Central Nigeria is underlain by migmatitic banded gneisses, granitic intrusions and dykes of dolerite, rhyolite porphyry and pegmatite. The rocks are generally felsic, containing modal and normative hypersthene, as well as normative corundum. The basement complex has experienced high-grade regional metamorphism as indicated by the presence of hypersthene and plagioclase of andesine composition. Anatectic melting is suggested by the occurrence of ptygmatic folds, folded gneissose foliation, numerous quartzo-feldspathic veins and lenses of dark-colured, micaceous schistose rocks. Geochemically, the rocks have magnesian, calc-alkalic and strongly peraluminous characteristics. Their overall characteristics suggest derivation from progressive (fractional) partial melting of pelitic rocks during high-grade regional metamorphism, possibly associated with intense hydrothermal activities. The magnesian characteristics reflect close affinity to relatively hydrous, oxidizing melts and source regions in settings broadly related to subduction.
基金project by PVSR(no.GAP 538-28[PVSR]),funded by the Department of Science and Technology,Government of India.
文摘The occurrence of rhythmic layering of chromite and host serpentinites in the deformed layered igneous complexes has been noticed in the Nuggihalli schist belt (NSB) in the western Dharwar craton, Karnataka, South India. For this study, the chromitite rock samples were collected from Jambur, Tagadur, Bhakatarhalli, Ranganbetta and Byrapur in the NSB. Petrography and ore microscopic studies on chromite show intense cataclasis and alteration to ferritchromite. The ferritchromite compositions are characterized by higher Cr number (Cr/[Cr+AI]) (0.68-0.98) and lower Mg number (Mg/[Mg+Fe]) (0.33-0.82) ratios in ferritchromite compared to that of parent chromite. The formation process for the ferritchromite is thought to be related to the exchange of Mg, AI, Cr, and Fe between the chromite, surrounding silicates (serpentines, chlorites), and fluid during serpentinization.
文摘We have analyzed the July 15, 2009, Fiordland earthquake (Mw 7.8), which occurred in the southwestern part of the South Island of New Zealand. This thrust-related earthquake in the southern Fiordland subduction zone is the largest New Zealand earthquake in the past 80 years. We have constrained a rupture model for this earthquake using coseismic offsets derived from the continuous geodetic network (Global Positioning System) of the New Zealand Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS Science). Our analysis concludes that this earthquake significantly increased the Coulomb stress on the overriding plate, particularly on the offshore portion of the Alpine fault.
基金funds provided from Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to National Geophysical Research Institute,Hyderabad through the projects of Ministry of Earth Sciences (No:MoES/PO(Geosci)/8/ 2014) and MLP 6406-28 (CM)
文摘Oldest rocks are sparsely distributed within the Dharwar Craton and little is known about their involvement in the sedimentary sequences which are present in the Archean greenstone successions and the Proterozoic Cuddapah basin.Stromatolitic carbonates are well preserved in the Neoarchean greenstone belts of Dharwar Craton and Cuddapah Basin of Peninsular India displaying varied morphological and geochemical characteristics.In this study,we report results from U-Pb geochronology and trace element composition of the detrital zircons from stromatolitic carbonates present within the Dharwar Craton and Cuddapah basin to understand the provenance and time of accretion and deposition.The UPb ages of the detrital zircons from the Bhimasamudra and Marikanve stromatolites of the Chitradurga greenstone belt of Dharwar Craton display ages of 3426±26 Ma to 2650±38 Ma whereas the Sandur stromatolites gave an age of 3508±29 Ma to 2926±36 Ma suggesting Paleo-to Neoarchean provenance.The U-Pb detrital zircons of the Tadpatri stromatolites gave an age of 2761±31 Ma to1672±38 Ma suggesting Neoarchean to Mesoproterozoic provenance.The Rare Earth Element(REE)patterns of the studied detrital zircons from Archean Dharwar Craton and Proterozoic Cuddapah basin display depletion in light rare earth elements(LREE)and enrichment in heavy rare earth elements(HREE)with pronounced positive Ce and negative Eu anomalies,typical of magmatic zircons.The trace element composition and their relationship collectively indicate a mixed granitoid and mafic source for both the Dharwar and Cuddapah stromatolites.The 3508±29 Ma age of the detrital zircons support the existence of 3.5 Ga crust in the Western Dharwar Craton.The overall detrital zircon ages(3.5-2.7 Ga)obtained from the stromatolitic carbonates of Archean greenstone belts and Proterozoic Cuddapah basin(2.7-1.6 Ga)collectively reflect on^800-900 Ma duration for the Precambrian stromatolite deposition in the Dharwar Craton.
基金supported by the Ministry of Earth Sciences,Govt.of India
文摘We estimate the shear wave splitting parameters vis-a-vis the thicknesses of the continental lithosphere beneath the two permanent seismic broadband stations located at Dhanbad(DHN) and Bokaro(BOKR) in the Eastern Indian Shield region. Broadband seismic data of 146 and 131 teleseismic earthquake events recorded at DHN and BOKR stations during 2007-2014 were analyzed for the present measurements.The study is carried out using rotation-correlation and transverse component minimization methods. We retain our "Good", "Fair" and "Null" measurements, and estimate the splitting parameters using 13 "Good" results for DHN and 10 "Good" results for BOKR stations. The average splitting parameters(φ,δt)for DHN and BOKR stations are found to be 50.76°±5.46° and 0.82±0.2 s and 56.30°±5.07° and0.95 ± 0.17 s, and the estimated average thicknesses of the anisotropic layers beneath these two stations are ~94 and ~109 km,respectively. The measured deviation of azimuth of the fast axis direction(0)from the absolute motion of the Indian plate ranges from ~8° to 14°. The measured deviation of azimuth of the fast axis direction(0) from the absolute motion of the Indian plate ranges from ~8° to 14°. The eastward deviation of the fast axis azimuths from absolute plate motion direction is interpreted to be caused by induced outflow from the asthenosphere. Further, the delay time found in the present analysis is close to the global average for continental shield areas, and also coherent with other studies for Indian shield regions. The five "Null" results and the lower delay time of ~0.5-0.6 s might be indicating multilayer anisotropy existing in the mantle lithosphere beneath the study area.
文摘P-wave velocity images are determined under the Mount Erebus hotspot,Antarctica by using teleseismic tomography.Our results show a prominent low-velocity(low-v)anomaly of nearly circular symmetry(about 250-300 km in diameter)to about 200 km depth under the Mount Erebus volcanic region,which further extends down to~400 km as a narrow tilted column.The observed low-v anomaly beneath the Mount Erebus volcano can be an expression of a thermal anomaly of deep origin.
文摘The long-term seepage of hydrocarbons, either as macroseepage or microseepage, can set up near-surface oxidation reduction zones that favor the development of a diverse array of chemical and mineralogical changes. The bacterial oxidation of light hydrocarbons can directly or indirectly bring about significant changes in the values of pH and Eh of the surrounding environment, thereby also changing the stability fields of the different mineral species present in that environment. The paper reports the role of hydrocarbon microseepage in surface alterations of trace metal concentrations. In this study trace metal alterations were mapped that appear to be associated with hydrocarbon microseepages in the oil/ gas fields. A total of 50 soil samples were collected near oil and gas fields of the Tatipaka and Pasarlapudi areas of the Krishna Godavari Basin, Andhra Pradesh. The soil samples were collected from a depth of 2-2.5 m. The paper reports the chemical alterations associated with trace metals in soils that are related to hydrocarbon microseepages above some of the major oil and gas fields of this petroliferous region. Trace metals, such as scandium (Sc), vanadium (V), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), barium (Ba) and strontium (Sr), in soil samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma- mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The concentrations of Sc (8 to 40 mg/kg), V (197 to 489 mg/kg), Cr (106 to 287 mg/kg), Co (31 to 52 mg/kg), Ni (65 to 110 mg/kg), Cu (88 to 131 mg/kg), Zn (88 to 471 mg/kg), Ba (263 to 3,091 mg/kg) and Sr (119 to 218 mg/kg) were obtained. It was observed that the concentrations of trace elements were tremendously increased when they were compared with their normal concentrations in soils. The analysis of adsorbed soil gas showed the presence of high concentrations of YC2+ (C2H6, C3H8 and n-C4H10) ranging from 7 to 222 μg/kg respectively. Integrated studies of trace elements over adsorbed light gaseous hydrocarbons (2C2+) anomalies showed good correlation with the existing oil and gas wells. The carbon isotopic composition of δ13C1 of the samples ranges between -36.6%o to -22.7‰ (Pee Dee Belemnite) values indicate thermogenic origin, which presents convincing evidence that the adsorbed soil gases collected from these sediments are of catagenetic origin. The increase in the concentrations of trace metals near oil/gas producing areas, suggests a soil chemical change to a reducing environment, presumably due to the influence of hydrocarbon microseepage, which could be applied with other geoscientific data to identify areas of future hydrocarbon exploration in frontier areas.
文摘Earthquakes began to occur in Koyna region (India) soon after the filling of Koyna Dam in 1962. In the present study, three datasets 1964-1993, 1993-1995, and 1996-1997 are analyzed to study the b-value and fractal dimension. The b-value is calculated using the Gutenberg- Richter relationship and fractal dimension Dcorr. using correlation integral method. The estimated b-value and Dcorr. of this region before 1993 are found to be in good agreement with previously reported studies. In the sub- sequent years after 1995, the b-value shows an increase. The estimated b-values of this region are found within the limits of global average. Also, the pattern of spatial clustering of earthquakes show increase in clustering and migration along the three zones called North-East Zone, South-East Zone (SEZ), and Warna Seismic Zone. The earthquake events having depth ≤5 km are largely confined to SEZ. After 1993, the Dcorr. shows decrease, implying that earth- quake activity gets clustered. This seismic clustering could be helpful for earthquake forecasting.
文摘This study attempts to simulate the spatial heterogeneity of infiltration in a drainage basin using digital elevation models. Infiltration capacity is one of the controlling factors in the formation of stream channels. Channel formation is also a function of the slope and the contributing area. Natural stream channels, if properly graded and adjusted to the present climate, reflect the interactions of local slope, contributing area, and permeability of surface materials. Channel networks can be delineated from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) using a variety of algorithms using different thresholds for channel initiation. These algorithms delineate a channel network on the basis of local slope, curvature, and contributing area, without considering the permeability of surface cover. Hence, the difference in the structure of the two drainage networks,?i.e.?the surveyed drainage network obtained from field observation and the simulated network generated from the DEM, is indicative of the spatial heterogeneities in the permeability of the surface cover as shown in this paper. Spatially variable drainage density maps corresponding to the two networks have been used here to obtain normalized difference maps that characterize the potential infiltration anomalies within the catchment. The simulated spatial pattern is compared with the actual infiltration measurements in the field using infiltration tests. Strong positive correlation between the observed and modeled infiltration confirms the effectiveness of this technique in the rapid assessment of potential infiltration variability.