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Letter SGeology glossary

Seismic Refraction

Seismic refraction is a geophysical method used to measure the velocities of seismic waves traveling through the Earth’s subsurface. This method is important in exploration geophysics for mapping subsurface structures, determining the depth of bedrock, and exploring for natural resources.

Seismic refraction layers with wave velocity illustration
Fig. 1 Seismic refraction layers with wave velocity illustration

Source Telford, W. M., Geldart, L. P., & Sheriff, R. E. (1990). “Applied Geophysics.” Cambridge University Press.

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