Question 1

You are provided with a vertical seismic section from a 3D depth-migrated reflectivity volume
(a) on which three amplitude anomalies (X, Y & Z) are identified. Close-ups of these
amplitude anomalies are also provided (bi, bii & biii), as are two amplitude maps extracted
from the 3D volume (ci & cii). Note that amplitude map (bi) images anomalies X and Y;
amplitude map (bii) images anomaly Z.

(a) Accurately interpret all visible faults on the vertical seismic section (5 marks).

Student should be able to map five main faults on the section. An additional subtle fault,
which appears to tip of downwards, is visible right-of-centre. A linkage point between two
faults left-of-centre on the section should be identified.

(b) Interpret a seismic horizon which would allow amplitude anomalies X and Y to be
imaged, (i.e. amplitude map (bi)) (5 marks).

Most simply, the student should map a black reflection event which passes directly through
both anomalies. Alternatively, the student may select a slightly more subtle red event which
directly overlies the anomalies of interest.

(c) To image anomaly Z (and to produce map bii), what techniques could be used? Indicate
the relevant horizon or window on the vertical seismic section (5 marks).

Ideally, a windowed-amplitude extraction should be used, which utilised the horizon mapped
in (b). An extraction taken from this horizon, shifted up by ca. 125 m, would image the
anomaly of interest. The student may indicate what thickness of extraction window would
be required. More simply, a horizon-based extraction may also image the anomaly.
Alternatively and slightly more problematically, the student may opt to interpret a red
reflection event which passes through the lower part of the anomaly.

(d) Draw geological sketch maps of the depositional environments imaged on maps (bi) and
(bii). Carefully label the maps (5 marks).

Student should be able to defined the main channelised and overbank depositional
elements on both maps and relate them to the laterally-discontinuous anomalies on section
(a). They should consider the potential depositional environment; fluvial or deep-marine? It is
difficult to tell and some discussion of this point would be rewarded.

(e) Indicate two potential exploration well locations on maps (bi) and (bii) (5 marks).

Wells could be located directly within the channelised bodies based on the assumption that
they are sand-filled. However, as no well or regional data is available to discriminate
between the different amplitude responses, it would be good to have some discussion on the
potential for targets outside of the channels. Additional marks will be given for some
discussion of trapping mechanism/issues.
A B
(a)

(TWT)
50 m
Z

X
Y
10 km

(bi) (bii) (biii)

(ci) (cii)

A A

B B

amplitude
+
-