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The numerical simulation and inversion fitting of radon concentration distribution in homogeneous overburden above active fault zones

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Abstract

Based on the convection and diffusion mechanisms of radon migration, in this paper we deduce the two-dimensional differential equation for radon transportation in the overburden above active fault zones with an unlimited extension along the strike. Making use of the finite difference method, the radon concentration distribution in the overburden above active faults is calculated and modeled. The active fault zone parameters, such as the depth and the width of the fault zone, and the value of radon concentration, can be inverted from the measured radon concentration curve. These realize quantitative interpretation for radon concentration anomalies. The inversion results are in good agreement with the actual fault zone parameters.

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Correspondence to Zhuwen Wang.

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Liu Jinghua received her PhD from the Department of Geophysics in the College of Geo-Exploration Science and Technology at Jilin University in 2006, her Master degree of Solid Geophysics at Jilin University in 2002, and her Bachelor degree of Exploration Geophysics at East China College of Geology in 1985. She is currently a Professor at Jilin University. Her interests are Nuclear Geophysics, Radiation and Environmental Evaluation.

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Liu, J., Wang, Z. & Wang, X. The numerical simulation and inversion fitting of radon concentration distribution in homogeneous overburden above active fault zones. Appl. Geophys. 5, 238–244 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11770-008-0034-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11770-008-0034-2

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