Derivative Transformation of Gravity Anomaly Data

Derivative transformation of gravity anomaly data serves as a crucial data processing technique in geophysical exploration. By computing derivatives of gravity anomaly data, this method more clearly reveals local variations in subsurface density structures, facilitating the identification of geological features such as faults and lithological boundaries.

The fundamental principle of derivative transformation involves using mathematical methods to calculate the rate of change of gravity anomalies along specific directions. Common derivative transformations include first-order and second-order derivatives, which respectively reflect the slope characteristics and curvature features of gravity anomaly variations. First-order derivatives emphasize boundaries of lateral density changes, while second-order derivatives further amplify local anomalies, aiding in the detection of small geological bodies.

In practical applications, derivative transformation can eliminate the influence of regional gravity fields and enhance the identification capability for local anomalies. Through derivative calculations along different directions, it's also possible to analyze the strike and dip of geological structures. This technique provides more intuitive quantitative basis for gravity data interpretation, making it an indispensable processing step in gravity exploration.