This module will introduce the fundamental concepts, techniques and results of applied geophysics. If you have ever wondered why graphite deposits can be mistaken for sulphide ores in geophysical surveys, what the best methods are to detect subsurface oil/gas reservoirs on land or at sea, how we can use micro-variations in gravity to delineate cave systems, or what the best geophysical techniques for mineral exploration or volcano monitoring are, this course is for you. The course is recommended as a valuable theoretical background to many subsequent and parallel modules, and will include a science communication project. 

Pre-requisite modules for this module are: Mathematics 1A (CSM1027) or Quantitative Methods for Geoscientists (CSM1041) PLUS Dynamic Planet (CSM1042) or Earth System Science (GEO1405b). There are no co-requisite modules. This module may be suitable for non-specialist students or interdisciplinary pathways.

The aim of this module is to introduce and demonstrate a variety of geophysical methods that are used to investigate the Earth’s subsurface, with applications for natural resource exploration, monitoring natural hazards, archaeology, and engineering site investigations. Their underpinning physics will be explained, as well as their respective advantages and limitations.

The module develops problem-solving, science communication and team-work abilities and equips students with basic computer programming and computational geoscience skills.The transferable skills and content developed during this module will be applicable for later modules and research projects, as well as industry, with particular relevance for resource exploration (minerals and hydrocarbons) and environmental/engineering site investigations.

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 Describe the background theory and resulting effects of a variety of geophysical phenomena;

2 Solve numerical problems related to geophysics;

3 Compare and contrast different geophysical methods for specific applied or academic endeavours;

4 Discuss the benefits of geophysics within a wider exploration or site investigation workflow;

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

5 Understand how field geophysical data is collected for a variety of applications;

6 Recognize how global geophysics underpins other geosciences;

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:

7 Demonstrate the use of scientific programming for simple mathematical tasks and data visualization and analysis;

8 Demonstrate an ability to work in small groups towards a single goal in a timely fashion;

9 Design and deliver a science communication project accessible for a lay audience.

Topics covered will typically include:

• General data acquisition, analysis and modelling;

• Seismic fundamentals;

• Seismic reflection and refraction surveys;

• Gravity surveys;

• Magnetic surveys;

• Electromagnetic methods;

• Electrical methods (resistivity, IP, SP);

• Volcano geophysics.

The module will be split into a series of lectures and practical sessions. The practicals will mainly be divided between quantitative problem sets and computational geoscience using MATLAB (standard software for both industry and research). There will also be a field-based practical to explore geophysical data collection.

If a student is referred or deferred, the failed / non-completed component(s) will be re-assessed at the same weighting as the original assessment.

Basic Reading:

Chapters of the books in the Reading List, which will be specified at the end of each lecture.

Web based and Electronic Resources:

ELE - http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Other Resources:

Background material from previous modules.

Reading list for this module: