Seismic Imaging of the High Atlas Crust: Unveiling Moho Depth and Elastic Properties Using Receiver Functions

Summary Receiver function analysis is a powerful seismological method for investigating deep structures within the Earth’s crust. In this study, we apply this technique to digital teleseismic data recorded by 35 seismic stations across Morocco’s Meseta and High Atlas regions. By analyzing the P-wave receiver function, we determine crustal thickness, Moho depth, and key parameters such as the Vp/Vs ratio and Poisson’s ratio, which provide insights into the elastic properties of rocks. The results reveal a crustal thickness ranging from 24 to 46 km with an undulating Moho interface. Maximum depths are observed in the northeastern Central High Atlas and the southwestern High Atlas near Marrakech. Notably, high Poisson’s ratio values (∼0.29) are identified in the Western and Central High Atlas, correlating with Moho depth variations and potential asthenospheric upwelling.