Seismic Soundoff

Roel Snieder discusses his 2022 SEG-AAPG Distinguished Lecture, "Measuring variations in the seismic velocity as a diagnostic of rock damage and healing." Interferometric methods in seismology have made it possible to detect time-lapse changes in seismic velocity with an accuracy of about 0.1%. Combined with using noise as a seismic source, it is under the right conditions possible to detect such velocity changes on a near-continuous basis. In this conversation with host Andrew Geary, Roel shows surprisingly that the seismic velocity is not constant at all. It varies with the seasons, temperature, precipitation, and ground shaking. He also discusses how logarithmic healing in rocks is a widespread behavior that is akin in its generality to the Gutenberg-Richter law. Roel also provides insights into the role of spirituality in science and offers actionable tips on preventing burnout. This is a wide-ranging conversation with surprising insights into rocks, as well as how to live a successful life. RELATED L