Regional interpretation of gravity data using the Riesz transform method: the case of the Tanezrouft region, southern Algeria

In this study, we interpreted regional gravity data from the Tanezrouft region in southern Algeria using the Riesz transform (RT) method, in combination with Energy Spectrum (ES) analysis. The RT method was applied to both synthetic and real gravity data to locate and estimate the depths of gravity sources in the study area. Three distinct depth ranges were identified based on their spectral characteristics: short-wavelength anomalies (depths < 2.65 km), medium-wavelength anomalies (2.65 km < depths < 7.25 km), and long-wavelength anomalies (depths > 7.25 km). These depth classes were confirmed by applying three dimensional Euler deconvolution to the RT results using specific parameters. The depths derived from the Euler solutions closely matched the ES inversion results. Furthermore, the Upward Continuation filter applied to the RT results at 20 km revealed two significant negative anomalies. The first one, including the development of various fault systems, is located in the west and is attributed to the collision of the Hoggar Mountains with the West African Craton. The second, instead, is situated in the east and is caused by a NE-oriented oblique fault system associated with a rifting zone that diagonally traverses the study area.