Seismological Characteristics of Oceanic Crusts

Abstract

Modern seismological methods applied to studies of oceanic crustal structures are revealing detailed two-dimensional, sometimes three-dimensional, models. These new models are being constructed in areas where their geology and tectonics are much better defined than before. We are in an era in which researchers are vigourously testing new ideas on how oceanic crusts form, evolve and eventually recycle into mantle or accrete onto land. This requires synthesis of seismological, petrological and geological evidences, including ophiolites. This paper aims to show how seismological models of oceanic crusts are constructed, how seismological parameters are dependent on other parameters, and what is the present view of an oceanic crust.