Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

Influence of complex topography on magnetotelluric-observed data using three-dimensional numerical simulation: A case from Guangxi area, China

  • Electriical & Electromagnetic Methods
  • Published:
Applied Geophysics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Fully recognize various problems in the observed magnetotelluric (MT) data is the precondition of inverse solutions. In the paper, according to the geomorphological conditions of the observational MT stations in the Guangxi area, we constructed several different kinds of models to conduct a three-dimensional forward simulation of the MT field using the vector finite element method (FEM). First, the variation rule and differences of apparent resistivity ρxy and ρyx in the xy and yx modes were studied and analyzed, and then the geoelectric information reflected by the change of apparent resistivity ρxx and ρyy were discussed. Final, the responses of typical geological structures that cause a static shift problem were presented. The synthetic examples showed that ρxy and ρyx were relevant to the layout of the survey line, for instance, ρxy had different values along the west-east profile compared with that of the south-north profile, Moreover, ρxx and ρyy could subtly show the abnormal body-host rock interface, which could be used to restrict the anomalous domain in the inversion process. In addition to the scale and depth of the top surface of the anomalous body, the widespread rivers and hills, can simulate static shift. Hence, to reduce the influence of static shift on MT data, a reasonable distance between a station and rivers or hills should be considered in accordance with the scale of rivers or hills.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • Ansari, S., and Farquharson, C. G., 2014, 3D finite-element forward modeling of electromagnetic data using vector and scalar potentials and unstructured grids: Geophysics, 79(4), E149–E165.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Beamish, D., and Travassos, J. M., 1992, A study of static shift removal from magnetotelluric data: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 29, 157–178.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cai, H. Z., Xiong, B., Han, M. R., et al., 2014, 3D controlled-source electromagnetic modeling in anisotropic medium using edge-based finite element method: Computers & Geosciences, 73, 164–176.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cai, H. Z., Hu, X. Y., Xiong, B., et al., 2017a, Parallelized 3D CSEM modeling using edge-based finite element with total field formulation and unstructured mesh: Computers & Geosciences, 99, 125–134.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cai, H. Z., Hu, X. Y., Xiong, B., et al., 2017b, Finite-element time-domain modeling of electromagnetic data in general dispersive medium using adaptive Padé series: Computers & Geosciences, 109, 194–205.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Chen, C., Kruglyakov, M., and Kuvshinov, A., 2021, Advanced three-dimensional electromagnetic modelling using a nested integral equation approach: Geophysical Journal International, 226(1), 114–130.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Coggon, J. H., 1971, Electromagnetic and electrical modelling by the finite element method: Geophysics, 36(1), 132–155.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Da F. Freire, P. E., Pereira, S. Y., and Padilha, A. L., 2020, Adjustment of a crustal geoelectric model from Commissioning data of HVDC ground electrodes: A case study from the Northeastern Paraná Basin, Brazil: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 182, 104186.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Delhaye, R., Rath, V., Jones, A. G., et al., 2017, Correcting for static shift of magnetotelluric data with airborne electromagnetic measurements: a case study from Rathlin Basin, Northern Ireland: Solid Earth, 8, 637–660.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • de Lugão, P. P., and Wannamaker, P. E., 1996, Calculating the two-dimensional magnetotelluric Jacobian in finite elements using reciprocity: Geophysical Journal International, 127(3), 806–810.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Farquharson, C. G., and Miensopust, M. P., 2011, Three-dimensional finite-element modelling of magnetotelluric data with a divergence correction: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 75(4), 699–710.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Groom, R.W., and Bailey, R.C., 1989, Decomposition of magnetotelluric impedance tensors in the presence of local three-dimensional galvanic distortion: J. Geophys. Res. Solid Earth, 94(B2), 1913–1925.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Gu, G. W., Wu, W. P., and Li, T. L., 2014, Modeling for the Effect of Magnetotelluric 3D Topography Based on the Vector Finite-Element Method: Journal of Jilin University (Earth Science Edition) (in Chinese), 44(5), 1678–1686.

    Google Scholar 

  • Han, K., 2012, A Study on Crust/Mantle Electrical Structure Characteristics and its Dynamics Background in Southeastern of South China: MS Thesis, Jilin University, Changchun.

  • Han, S., 2017, The 3D electrical lithosphere structure of the south China and its tectonic implications: PhD Thesis, Jilin University, Changchun.

  • Hohmann, G. W., 1975, Three-dimensional induced polarization and electromagnetic modeling: Geophysics, 40(2), 309–324.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Jin, J. M., 2002, The finite element method in electromagnetics, 2nd edition: John wiley & sons. Inc, New York.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kordy, M., Wannamaker, P., Maris, V., et al., 2016, 3-D magnetotelluric inversion including topography using deformed hexahedral edge finite elements and direct solvers parallelized on SMP computers-Part I: forward problem and parameter Jacobians: Geophysical Journal International, 204(1), 74–93.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Li, Y. G., 2002, A finite-element algorithm for electromagnetic induction in two-dimensional anisotropic conductivity structures: Geophysical Journal International, 148(3), 389–401.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Li, Y. G., and Pek, J., 2008, Adaptive finite element modelling of two-dimensional magnetotelluric fields in general anisotropic media: Geophysical Journal International, 175(3), 942–954.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Mackie, R. L., Madden, T. R., and Wannamaker, P. E., 1993, Three-dimensional magnetotelluric modeling using difference equations—Theory and comparisons to integral equation solutions: Geophysics, 58(2), 215–226.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Martí, A., Queralt, P., Ledo, J., et al., 2010, Dimensionality imprint of electrical anisotropy in magnetotelluric responses: Physics of the Earth and Planetary Interiors, 182, 139–151.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nam, M. J., Kim, H. J., Yoonho, S., et al., 2007, 3D magnetotelluric modelling including surface topography: Geophysical Prospecting, 55(2), 277–87.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Nam, M. J., Kim, H. J., Yoonho, S., et al., 2008, Three-dimensional topography corrections of magnetotelluric data: Geophysical Journal International, 174(2), 464–474.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Palshin, N., Giraudo, R. E., Yakovlev, D., et al., 2020, Detalied magnetotelluric study of the northern part of Subandean fold belt, Bolivia: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 181, 104136.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Pape, F. L., 2013, Characterization of a Crustal Transition Zone in Northern Tibet using Magnetotelluric Modelling: PhD Thesis, National University of Ireland, Galway.

    Google Scholar 

  • Patkó, L., Novák, A., Klébesz, R., et al., 2021, Effect of metasomatism on the electrical resistivity of the lithospheric mantle — An integrated research using magnetotelluric sounding and xenoliths beneath the Nógrád-Gömör Volcanic Field: Global and Planetary Change, 197, 103389.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Pridmore, D. F., Hohmann, G. W., Ward, S. H., et al., 1981, An investigation of finite-element modeling of electric and electromagnetic data in three dimensions: Geophysics, 46(7), 1009–1024.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rodi, W. L., 1976, A technique for improving the accuracy of finite element solutions for magnetotelluric data: Geophysical Journal International, 44(2), 483–506.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ruan, B. Y., and Xiong, B., 2002, A finite element modeling of three-dimensional resistivity sounding with continuous conductivity: Chinese J. Geophys (in Chinese), 45(1), 131–138.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ruan, B. Y., Xiong, B., and Xu, S. Z., 2001, Finite element method of modeling resistivity sounding on 3D geoelectic section: Earth Science, (in Chinese), 26(12), 73–77.

    Google Scholar 

  • Saad, Y., 2003, Iterative methods for sparse linear systems, Second Edition: Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Philadelphia.

    Book  Google Scholar 

  • Schwarzbach, C., Börner, R. U., and Spitzer, K., 2011, Three-dimensional adaptive higher order finite element simulation for geo-electromagnetics—a marine CSEM example: Geophysical Journal International, 2011, 187(1), 63–74.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Siripunvaraporn, W., and Sarakorn, W., 2011, An efficient data space conjugate gradient Occam’s method for three-dimensional magnetotelluric inversion: Geophysical Journal International, 186(2), 567–579.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ting, S. C., and Hohmann, G. W., 1981, Integral equation modeling of three-dimensional magnetotelluric response: Geophysics, 46(2), 182–197.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Tournerie, B., Chouteau, M., and Marcotte, D., 2007, Magnetotelluric static shift: Estimation and removal using the cokriging method, Geophysics, 72(1), F25–F34.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wang, S. M., Li, D. S., and Hu, H., 2013, Numerical modeling of magnetotelluric phase tensor in the context of 3D/3D formation: Chinese Journal of Geophysics, 56(5), 1745–1752.

    Google Scholar 

  • Wang, T., and Hohmann, G. W., 1993, A finite-difference time-domain solution for three-dimensional electromagnetic modeling: Geophysics, 58(6), 797–809.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wannamaker, P. E., Scodt, J. A., and Rijo, L., 1978, A stable finite element solution for two-dimensional magnetotelluric modelling: Geophysical Journal International, 88(1), 277–296.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Wannamaker, P. E., 1991, Advances in three-dimensional magnetotelluric modeling using integral equations: Geophysics, 56(11), 1716–1728.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Xiao, T. J., Liu, Y., Wang, Y., et al., 2018, Three-dimensional magnetotelluric modeling in anisotropic media using edge-based finite element method: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 149, 1–9.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Xiong, B., 2011, 2.5-D forward for transient electromagnetic response of a block linear resistivity distribution: Journal of Geophysics and Engineering, 8, 115–121.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Xu, S. Z., 1994, Finite element method in geophysics (in Chinese): Science Press, Beijing.

    Google Scholar 

  • Ye, Y., Du, J., Liu, Y., et al., 2021, Three-dimensional magnetotelluric modeling in general anisotropic media using nodal-based unstructured finite element method: Computers & Geosciences, 148, 104686.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhdanov, M. S., Smith, R. B., Gribenko, A., et al., 2011. Three-dimensional inversion of large-scale EarthScope magnetotelluric data based on the integral equation method: Geoelectrical imaging of the Yellowstone conductive mantle plume: Geophysical Research Letters, 38(8), L08307.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhdanov, M. S., Varentsov, I. M., Weaver, J. T., et al., 1997, Methods for modelling electromagnetic fields Results from COMMEMI the international project on the comparison of modelling methods for electromagnetic induction: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 37(3), 133–271.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Zhou, J., Hu, X., Xiao, T., et al., 2021, Three-dimensional edge-based finite element modeling of magnetotelluric data in anisotropic media with a divergence correction: Journal of Applied Geophysics, 189, 104324.

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Prof. C. G. Fauquharson for his constructive comments and for providing mesh data and results for comparison. We would also like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their constructive criticism.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. College of Earth Sciences, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541006, China

    Xiong Bin, Luo Tian-Ya, Chen Long-Wei, Xu Zhi-Feng, Li Chang-Wei, Ding Yan-Li, Wang Hong-Hua & Li Jing-He

  2. School of Geosciences and Info-Physics, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, China

    Dai Shi-Kun

Authors
  1. Xiong Bin
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Luo Tian-Ya
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Chen Long-Wei
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  4. Dai Shi-Kun
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  5. Xu Zhi-Feng
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  6. Li Chang-Wei
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  7. Ding Yan-Li
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  8. Wang Hong-Hua
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  9. Li Jing-He
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Luo Tian-Ya.

Additional information

This paper was partially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 41674075 and 41904123); the Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Province (No. 2016GXNSFGA380004); and the High Level Innovative Team and Excellent Scholar Plan of Guangxi High Education Institution.

Xiong Bin, Professor, received his B.S. and Ph.D. degree from Jilin University in 1998, and China University of Geoscience (Wuhan) in 2004, respectively. From 2004 to 2006, he worked on post-doc at Central South University and became an Associate Professor in 2006. And now he works at Guilin University of Technology as Professor. His research interests are electromagnetic numerical modeling and inversion. Email: xiongbin@glut.edu.cn

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Bin, X., Tian-Ya, L., Long-Wei, C. et al. Influence of complex topography on magnetotelluric-observed data using three-dimensional numerical simulation: A case from Guangxi area, China. Appl. Geophys. 17, 601–615 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11770-020-0842-6

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Revised:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11770-020-0842-6

Keywords

Search

Navigation