• Geophysics and Geophysical Exploration
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• v.8 no.3
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• pp.207-217
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• 2005

We present a new approximate formulation of the integral equation (IE) method for models with variable background conductivity. This method overcomes the standard limitation of the conventional If method related to the use of a horizontally layered background only. The new approximate IE method still employs the Green's functions for a horizontally layered 1-D model. However, the new method allows us to use an inhomogeneous background with the IE method. The method was carefully tested for modeling the EM field for complex structures with a known variable background conductivity. It can find wide application in modeling EM data for multiple geological models with some common geoelectrical features, like a known inhomogeneous overburden, or salt dome structures.