Seismic Imaging of the Sugar Creek Fault, Western Tennessee

Author

Chidozie Opara

Date

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Earth Sciences

Committee Chair

Charles Langston

Committee Member

Chris Cramer

Committee Member

Randel Cox

Abstract

A seismic reflection survey was fielded near Drummonds, Tipton County, TN, along a stretch of Tennessee 59 highway, hypothesized to intersect with the East-West striking Sugar creek Fault that is exposed at the surface. We aimed to image the Sugar Creek fault using a combination of 2D seismic reflection data and refraction tomography. The 2D seismic reflection survey was processed to reveal a fault dipping in the northwest direction, which is a characteristic feature of the Sugar Creek fault system. The seismic reflection data provided good-resolution images of subsurface structures, enabling the identification of fault planes and associated geological formations. To complement the reflection imaging and constrain the shallow velocity model, refraction tomography was employed. This technique helped to delineate subsurface velocity structures, offering a different perspective on the fault geometry and subsurface conditions. The integration of seismic reflection and refraction tomography allowed for a comprehensive understanding of the fault's characteristics, enhancing the accuracy of the subsurface model. The combined approach successfully imaged the northwest-dipping fault, providing valuable insights into the structural framework of the Sugar Creek fault system. The newly imaged fault is a ~35 meter-deep structure which indicates a shallow fault, and an apparent dip of ~15 degrees which can be characterized as a thrust fault. This methodology demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating multiple geophysical techniques for detailed fault imaging and subsurface characterization, and provides geophysical constraints on fault location, dip, and the presence of a fault damage zone which will support ongoing tectonic studies and hazard assessments in this region.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.”

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Embargoed until 12-23-2025

Recommended Citation

Opara, Chidozie, "Seismic Imaging of the Sugar Creek Fault, Western Tennessee" (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3690.
https://digitalcommons.memphis.edu/etd/3690