Inferring Geological Structures Using Wavelet-Based Multiscale Edge Analysis and Forward Models

A set of semi-automatic tools for analysis of potential field data has been developed. These tools use wavelet analysis to automatically detect gradients or edges in potential field data. The tools are normally applied to different levels of upward continuation, providing automatic detection of edges in the potential field data at different scales of resolution. We refer to these edges at different levels of upward continuation as "multiscale edges". Commonly, sharp contrasts evident in potential field data (edges or gradients) are assumed to result from sharp discontinuities or interfaces between contrasting rock materials such as faults, unconformities, or intrusive contacts. Because of the inherent non-uniqueness of potential field problems, there can be no certain or unambiguous differentiation between differen