Balanced cross-section construction from seismic sections in areas of extensional tectonics

Abstract The application of the technique of balanced section construction, initially developed for areas of compressional folding and faulting, is reviewed with reference to extensional tectonics. A number of examples are discussed where these techniques have been successfully applied in the North Sea. The interpretation of geoseismic sections is considered to be greatly assisted by careful application of geometrical balance and a consideration of strain even in areas of low crustal extensions. The nature of seismic sections, however, places limitations on the validity of balancing which must be borne in mind with such interpretations and wherever possible the balancing of a geoseismic section should be confirmed by complete depth conversion. The rapid testing of the integrity of the geoseismic section by attempting to balance the section at the interpretational phase can eliminate many problems as well as allowing the fullest use to be made of the geophysical information.