Crustal structure beneath the Rhinegraben from seismic refraction and reflection measurements

摘要: Abstract A model of the crustal structures beneath Rhinegraben rift system has been derived based on results seismic refraction and reflection measurements. Observations along two lines parallel to strike graben overlapping profiles traversing normal its axis provided necessary data. They were supplemented by deep experiments carried out within in adjacent regions. Important findings are existence velocity inversions crust a characteristic “rift cushion” with compressional 7.6–7.7 km/sec correspondingly high shear velocity. This body is considered be driving mechanism rifting process. Immediately below pronounced low-velocity channel upper an intermediate layer lamellar structure presumably basic composition found. The most conspicuous feature cross-section asymmetry. It seems as if process must have started at eastern margin graben. Complete bilateral symmetry not yet achieved.