Application of seismic reflection in petroleum exploration?

Answer 1

Yes! If we talk about easiness and cost, then other methods are inexpensive. But what the reflection seismology tells us, the gravity data or magnetic data doesn't tell us. Seismic data tells us about the contrast of majority of the geological layers and our interest is to find oil and gas in such layers. Gravity data doesn't tell us about such minute contrasts. It can tell us the difference in gravitational attraction of two different rocks of significant density contrast e.g. 3.0 (hard rock) to 2.5 gm/cc (soft rock). It is very useful tool to conduct a reconnaissance surveys. Like to know the deep crustal rocks in the areas of exploration, to get information of deep magnetic anomalies and so on. Therefore, seismic data is more refined, much better resolution up to 20meters rather than in killo meters (gravity/magnetic) and a better 3D subsurface image.

Answer 2

Seismic reflection is used in petroleum exploration to create images of underground rock formations by sending sound waves into the earth and measuring the reflections. These images help identify potential reservoirs of oil and gas by imaging structural features like faults, folds, and stratigraphic traps. It is a crucial tool for locating and characterizing subsurface geology before drilling wells for oil and gas exploration.