2D gravity modelling along the CROP11 seismic profile

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to present a gravity reconstruction of the deepest portion of the CROP 11 seismic line. The 2D gravity modelling is constrained by DSS data and by deep reflection seismic data obtained along the CROP 11 line. The role of the regional gravity anomaly trend of Central Italy as an independent constraint for the geological interpretation of the seismic line is also highlighted. The main gravity low (Fucino Plain) in the area is compensated by the combined effect of a regional deepening of both the Moho and the top of the crystalline basement, while the gravity low, located east towards the Maiella Mt., seems to originate between a 4 and 10 km depth. A lower density can be assigned to the western portion of the mantle with respect to the eastern side. The westernmost part of the upper crust in the model also shows a slightly lower density. The crystalline basement is not likely to be heavily involved in the deformation of the chain; ramp-and-flat deformations are present down to a depth of 20 km, i.e. the “highly reflective body” on the western side of the profile, which does not have a marked gravity imprint and should be due to relatively “light” sedimentary units.