Velocity anisotropy terminology for geophysicists

Abstract

Interest in velocity anisotropy increased sharply among exploration seismologists following publication in 1986 of evidence for azimuthal anisotropy in sedimentary rocks. This increased level of interest generated a need for a glossary of anisotropy terminology in the language of geophysicists. This glossary is to: • help geophysicists find proper words • promote correct usage. The introduction preceding the alphabetically organized glossary focuses on concepts that have special importance for anisotropy but may be unfamiliar to most geophysicists. Symmetry concepts receive special emphasis because of their fundamental importance.