Abstract
For the case of low-relief structure associated with petroleum accumulation, the non-structural working hypothesis postulates the observation of refraction fan anomalies with characteristics which are unique when compared with those of the refraction fan anomalies postulated by the geophysical structural working hypothesis generally accepted for the resolution of refraction fan anomalies.These unique characteristics are observable magnitude on depths of survey too shallow to intercept the underlying structure, double-peaked maximum configuration, off-structural orientation of maximum leads, and change in type of configuration as the survey depth increases to structural interception. Case treatments are shown where such structurally forbidden refraction fan anomalies were observed across low-relief structure associated with petroleum accumulation, subsurface conditions which were revealed by subsequent development. These case treatments are substantiating evidence for the non-structural working hypothesis in Gulf Coast refraction prospecting.
