Three‐dimensional attenuation tomography at Loma Prieta: Inversion of t* for Q

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Abstract
Three‐dimensional Q−1 variations in the aftershock region of Loma Prieta are derived by tomographic inversion. The data set consists of over 4000 aftershock recordings at 22 PASSCAL (Program for Array Seismic Studies of the Continental Lithosphere) stations deployed after the Loma Prieta mainshock of 1989. Estimates of attenuation are determined from nonlinear least squares best fits to the Fourier amplitude spectrum of P and S wave arrivals. The linear attenuation inversion is accomplished by using three‐dimensional velocity variations derived previously in nonlinear velocity inversions. Low Q is observed near the surface and Q generally increases with depth. The southwest side of the San Andreas fault exhibits lower Q than does the northeast side and this feature apparently extends to approximately 7 km depth. The fault zone, as determined by the dipping plane of aftershock activity, is characterized by slightly higher Qp and lower Qs, compared to regions immediately adjacent to the fault. These correlate with high‐velocity anomalies associated with seismicity at depth. The results are in agreement with earlier observations regarding the association of high‐velocity anomalies, seismicity, and fault zone asperities.

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