Gravity Method in Structural Studies

The geologists feel comfortable with gravity method, since the gravity data often faithfully reflects the subsurface structure. Unlike in seismic due to wave propagation, magnetic due to both attraction and repulsion, and electrical and electromagnetics due to induction, the attractive gravity field produces relatively simpler patterns of anomalies, like a series of highs and lows over regions with undulating basements and buried structures. A qualitative interpretation of gravity data reveals a good deal of information. Further data processing and quantitative interpretation have added more meaning and often supplemented the finding by other methods. In seismic, for example, where reflections are weak or absent like in Moray Firth, North Sea, gravity helps to establish the structure.