Estimation of Seismic Quality Factor via Quantum Mechanics-Based Signal Representation

We propose a stable seismic $Q$ estimation approach by employing quantum mechanics-based signal representation. For $Q$ estimation, we project a seismic trace onto a specific basis composed of wave functions constructed through the resolution of the Schroedinger equation of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics at first. Then, based on the specific basis, we derive the quantum mechanics-based $Q$ estimation approach in the local frequency-projection coefficient domain. The Planck constant and the control factor are the two key factors for the quantum mechanics-based $Q$ estimation method. Compared with the traditional methods, the quantum mechanics-based $Q$ estimation approach shows more stability and noise robustness. The synthetic and field data applications illustrate the effectiveness and the superiority of the proposed method. The quantum mechanics-based $Q$ estimation method offers a new field and provides a complementary way for measuring seismic attenuation.