Geophysical Methods
Undergraduate course
- ECTS credits
- 10
- Teaching semesters
- Spring
- Course code
- GEOV111
- Number of semesters
- 1
- Resources
- Schedule
Course description
Objectives and Content
The aim of the course is to familiarize students with the main geophysical principles and methods used for studying the Earth's interior structure, development through time and active geodynamic processes, as well as for mapping structures and resources in the Earth's crust.
The principles and methods for reflection and refraction of seismic waves from earthquakes and artificial sources will be presented. Magnetic, gravity-based, electrical and electromagnetic methods for mapping the crust, radiometric dating of rocks, earthquake mechanisms and heat flow are other main themes. The individual methods and their application will be illustrated through examples and exercises.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:
Knowledge
The student can
- describe the principles for reflection and refraction of seismic waves, and their significance for mapping the crust and the Earth's interior structure
- explain the connection between earthquakes and different fault mechanisms, and different methods for determining the strength and the location of an earthquake
- explain the basic principles of magnetic, electric, electromagnetic and gravity based methods for studying the Earth's crust and its evolution
- describe the principles for radiometric dating of rocks and heat flow in the Earth¿s crust
Skills
The student can
- apply the basic principles to analyze and visualize different types of geophysical data
- perform basic mathematical calculations related to geophysical data analysis
- discuss how various geophysical methods are applied to solve actual geoscientific problems
General competence
The student
- apply an accurate terminology to describe and discuss geophysical methods and their application
- demonstrate the ability to work alone and in cooperation with others
- perform basic field work in accordance with the GEO/UiB HSE regulations
Access to the Course
Teaching and learning methods
48 hours of teaching (4 hours/week)
24 hours of exercises (3 hours/week)
1 day field course
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
Compulsory exercises
Approved field report in groups
Compulsory exercises are valid for 2 additional semesters
Forms of Assessment
The forms of assessment consists of:
- Assignment/exercises, accounts for 50% of total grade
- written examination (3 hours), accounts for 50% of total grade
Digital exam, please visit: www.uib.no/en/student/87471/digital-assessment-students