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How can you look thousands of feet below the
surface of the earth or see millions of years into the
past? Scientists use everything from picks and shovels
to high-powered computers to study rock formations deep
below the earth's surface in the search for oil and
gas. To "see" these formations, scientists use a variety
of methods, from studying rocks on the surface to creating
3D computer models of ancient landscapes that now lie
buried deep underground. One program that helps create
these views into the earth's geologic formations is
CyberGeologist*.
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A 3D computer model of
an underground gas reservoir showing rock formations in
prehistoric rivers. Two point bars (pale pink) have
been modelled using information from seismic data measured
at the earth's surface (blue and red), and wellbore measurements
(grey). Top and bottom of the gas-bearing interval
are orange. |
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This research program, sponsored by Schlumberger and the
United States Gas Research Institute, is called CyberGeologist
because computers are being used to store and analyze all
kinds of data about underground rock formations in order to
generate 3D models of them. The scientists work in Connecticut,
but their study concerns formations of all ages from all over
the world.They study sedimentary rocks as they are being formed
in rivers and streams, as well as samples of rocks deep below
the surface which were formed millions of years ago. By studying
modern formations as they occur, the scientists can better
understand the shapes of ancient formations underground. This
understanding can then be used to help create more accurate
models of oil and gas reservoirs below the surface.One type
of sand body which the scientists study is called a point
bar. Read on to learn more about how point bars are formed
and how understanding them helps scientists "see" below the
surface of the earth.
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