Apparatus and method for generating seismic energy in subterranean formations

A method of creating a seismic wave in a subterranean formation which is penetrated by a well bore, said method comprising:

• computer modeling the amount of energy that can be applied to the subterranean formation before dynamic fracturing of the subterranean formation will occur and that can be applied to the well bore without mechanical failure of casing which is positioned in the well bore;
• selecting the geometric configuration of at least one piece of propellant material based upon said step of computer modeling;
• and
• detonating at least one explosive charge in said well bore thereby igniting said at least one piece of propellant material which is interposed between said at least one explosive charge and the walls of said well bore.