Apparent Density Mapping and 3d Gravity Inversion in the Eastern Alps1

Power spectrum analysis of the Bouger gravity values in the Eastern Alps suggests that the gravity field may be separated into long and short wavelength components. The long wavelength component is assumed to be caused by Alpine crustal thickening. This long wavelength component was subjected to a gravimetric single density‐interface inversion procedure, giving a gravimetric Mohorovičić model which is generally in good agreement with Moho‐depths derived by refraction and reflection seismology. The residual high‐frequency gravity component correlates well with the main surface geological units in the Eastern Alps. Apparent density mapping by applying an inverse density deconvolution filter to the short wavelength gravity component gives density values for the upper crust which correspond well with averaged density values from rock samples.