SUBSURFACE CHARACTERIZATION BASED ON DENSITIES AND THICKNESS OF SEDIMENTS OBTAINED FROM FORWARD MODELLING OF GRAVITY DATA

Abstract

The gravity data over parts of the lower Benue Trough Southeastern Nigeria was acquired from the Nigerian geological survey agency, this six sheets of gravity data covered areas within latitude 6˚00΄N to 7˚00΄N and longitude 7˚00΄E to 8˚30΄E. The data was analyzed and interpreted employing forward modelling technique using Glabox and Bloxer software. The model consisted of three profile lines with model bodies emplaced in them in other to match the curve of the observed field to that of the calculated field. The densities that characterized the subsurface materials causing the anomalies ranged from 2.10 to 3.150 g/cm3. The densities suggested sedimentary rocks such as shale, sand stone, and limestone. Intercalation between sedimentary rocks were observed in profile line 3, Juxtaposition of blocks with similar density range was also observed in profile line 1, these are probably mineralized zones. The area indicates hydrocarbon potential due to densities suggesting source and cap rocks