Methods for wavenumber-domain transform calculation and DEXP-based quantitative interpretation of third-order gradient tensor anomalies of gravitational potential

Since the current instrumental measurement technology cannot directly measure the third-order gradient tensor of gravitational potential, this study proposed a wavenumber-domain transform calculation method for the third-order gradient tensor of gravitational potential based on the gravity anomaly and gradient tensor data. To verify the correctness of this method, this study computed the third-order gradient tensor anomalies of gravitational potential using a 3D model and compared the wavenumber-domain transform calculation results with the forward modeling results, suggesting that the wavenumber-domain transform calculation method is feasible. Moreover, the wavenumber-domain transform calculation results based on gravitational gradient tensor data were more accurate than those based on gravity anomaly data, yielding a root mean square error not exceeding 1 pMKS. In addition, based on the measured data of the Vinton salt dome area, the third-order gradient tensor data of gravitational potential of this area were obtained using the wavenumber-domain transform calculation method. The obtained data were used for DEXP-based data interpretation, attaining consistent depth and boundary results with the previous research results.