MOHO DEPTHS IN KANSAS FROM GRAVITY INVERSION ASSUMING EXPONENTIAL DENSITY CONTRAST

We have derived an analytical expression in the wavenumber domain for calculating the gravity anomaly caused by an uneven layer, within which the density contrast changes exponentially with depth. We have shown that a constant density contrast and a linear density contrast are specific situations of the exponential density contrast model. The equation should be more efficient than vertical prism methods for linear or exponential density contrast. The equation is tested using synthetic data. We employ the iterative forward-modeling approach presented to invert the regional gravity anomaly of Kansas to determine depth to the Moho discontinuity with an exponential density contrast model. The inversion is constrained by seismic refraction along the two-dimensional profile from Concordia, Kansas to Agate, Colorado. The average density model in the crust of Kansas also is determined.