Focal depth determination from the signal character of long-period P waves

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Abstract
The shape of long-period teleseismic P-wave signals is a function of many factors, among which are focal depth, focal mechanism, the source time function, and the earth structures at both the source and receiver. The effect of focal depth is quite pronounced, so much so, that focal depths should be able to be determined to within 10 km on the basis of the long-period P-wave character. This resolution capability is demonstrated for events occurring in continental and oceanic crust as observed by seismographs in the 30° to 80° epicentral distance range.