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Genetic algorithm inversion for receiver functions with application to crust and uppermost mantle structure beneath eastern Australia
Author(s) -
Shibutani Takuo,
Sambridge Malcolm,
Kennett Brian
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/96gl01671
Subject(s) - geology , crust , receiver function , mantle (geology) , underplating , seismology , transition zone , inversion (geology) , geophysics , tectonics , subduction , lithosphere
Genetic algorithm (GA) inversion, a nonlinear global optimization technique, has been applied to determine crustal and uppermost mantle velocity structure from teleseismic receiver functions. With a new modelling in which not only the S wave velocity but also the layer thickness and the V P /V S ratio are model parameters, the GA receiver function inversion is able to recover the velocity structure with reasonable accuracy in the whole crust, and particularly well for the surface layer and the crust‐mantle boundary. Structural inversion for receiver functions from a network of broadband seismic stations in eastern Australia allows a comparison of crustal structure from different tectonic environments. The crust‐mantle boundary is shallow and sharp on the craton but deep and transitional along the axis of the fold belt zone in eastern Australia. This suggests crustal thickening in the fold belt by underplating or intrusion of mantle materials into the lower crust.