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Qualitative and quantitative analysis of gravity data: structural implications in Douala–Kribi basin, Cameroon

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Abstract

The aim of this study is to improve the structural map of Douala–Kribi basin. For this purpose, computer tools are used to make qualitative and quantitative analyses to interpret the gravity data. The findings provided several maps which are: the Bouguer gravity anomalies, residual, horizontal gradient, analytical signal, tilt angle, variation of depth, and multi-scale analysis gravity anomalies maps. A thorough examination of these maps highlights lineaments interpreted as faults, and intrusive bodies in the study area. The multi-scale analysis helped to portray the deep faults and therefore construct the structural map of the Douala–Kribi basin. The application of the Euler deconvolution method and variation of the maxima solutions of horizontal gradient upward continuation (HGup) have resulted in the depth of the structures and the intrusive bodies. The faults identified in the Douala–Kribi basin seem to be induced by tectonic movements in addition to the uprise of intrusion. The Euler solutions and tilt angle depths are included in those of the residual field while those from the analytical signal partly overlap those from the residual field and tilt angle. Then, the Euler solutions maps, and the maxima solutions contribute to highlighting the trust interval depth which is the compatibility depth.

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Acknowledgements

The high teacher training college of the University of Yaoundé I in Cameroon is the institution in which this work was done. The authors are grateful to the reviewers and the readership for their kind help in making the manuscript clearer, more correct and mature for publication.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physics, Advanced Teacher’s Training College, University of Yaoundé I, P.O. Box 47, Yaoundé, Cameroon

    J. Yandjimain & T. Ndougsa Mbarga

  2. School of Geology and Mining Engineering, University of Ngaoundéré, P.O. Box 115, Meiganga, Cameroon

    P. Claude Ngoumou

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  1. J. Yandjimain
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  2. P. Claude Ngoumou
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  3. T. Ndougsa Mbarga
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Contributions

JY contributed to data processing, geophysical data management software, interpretation, methodology, and writing, PCN contributed to geological analysis, Théophile. NM is the head of the laboratory of geophysics–geoexploration, materials and data supplier.

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Correspondence to J. Yandjimain.

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Edited by Prof. Teresa Grabowska (ASSOCIATE EDITOR) / Prof. Ramon Zuñiga (CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF).

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Yandjimain, J., Ngoumou, P.C. & Mbarga, T.N. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of gravity data: structural implications in Douala–Kribi basin, Cameroon. Acta Geophys. 72, 49–65 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11600-023-01172-8

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