Dynamic response of multi-scale geophysical systems: waves and practical applications

In this review paper, we discuss the nature of an apparent link between heterogeneities associated with geological anomalies hidden from direct observation, detected when they are analysed remotely from various distances—including borehole conditions as well as aero imaging. Here, the main emphasis is placed on geological and geophysical features represented by spatially distributed signals measured along drilled well or along predefined spatial routes. In the common practice of indirect measurements of parameters of seismically active regions, there exist certain observations on correlations in the vicinity of structural and geological anomalies, repeated patterns in the representation of correlation functions and corresponding classification in multidimensional statistical methods. Underlying natural physical processes, which determine the structure of the primary anomalous environment, are of interest. Physical analogies, based on the mathematical modelling and generalization of empirical data, may suggest that such a process may be linked to wave phenomena on a geological scale. Applications include analysis of anomalies associated with non-potential fields, mapping of geodynamic zones and seismic microzoning; reconstruction of the geostructural vertical section of the mountainous regions. This article is part of the theme issue 'Wave generation and transmission in multi-scale complex media and structured metamaterials (part 2)'.