Receiver function

Summary

A receiver function is a time series computed from a three-component seismogram of a distant earthquake. It shows the response of the Earth structure directly below the station. It is obtained by deconvolution of the vertical component from the horizontal components, which removes the source and the path. What remains are the waves converted from P to S at interfaces under the station. The delays of the converted waves after the direct P wave give the depths of interfaces such as the Moho. Receiver functions are a main tool for mapping crustal thickness and mantle discontinuities.