Course content

Petrophysical measurements underlie interpretation of geophysical data sets such as magnetic and gravity surveys, or may comprise stand-alone studies to address Earth history questions using crustal, environmental or rock magnetism, paleomagnetism, or cyclostratigraphy. This course will train students in the use of magnetic and density instrumentation at the NTNU Rock Magnetic Laboratory. Class content will address the fundamental origin of magnetic properties and applications of magnetic measurements in Earth Sciences. This course is ideally suited for students who have previously acquired samples for a Master's thesis or PhD project, and wish to characterise their magnetic properties or undertake a paleomagnetic, crustal, environmental, or other rock magnetic study. It serves as an alternative to TGB4280 Geophysical Exploration for Geological and Environmental Applications to fulfill the training requirement for independent use of the NTNU Rock Magnetic Laboratory.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE: Students will gain expertise in established and cutting-edge laboratory methods, and fundamental and theoretical underpinnings of magnetic techniques and applications.

SKILLS: Students will develop skills in measurement of magnetic properties, presentation, and interpretation of diverse data sets, using application-specific processing potentially including coding. In addition, they will gain experience in planning and refining experiments in crustal, environmental or rock magnetism, paleomagnetism, or cyclostratigraphy.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, guided readings, and compulsory laboratory project work. The syllabus includes intensive lecturing at the start of term, followed by extended project work, seminars, and presentations that reflect the intended application of the measured data. Independent lab work in addition to laboratory training is a required part of the course. This course is ideally suited for students who have previously acquired samples for a Master's thesis or PhD project and wish to characterise their magnetic properties or undertake a paleomagnetic, crustal, environmental, or other rock magnetic study. Course evaluation will be by all students.

Compulsory assignments

• Laboratory work
• 2 reports

Required previous knowledge

TGB4125 Mineralogy or TGB4126 Mineralogy, Basic Course, and basic introductions to physics, chemistry, and geology, or approval of instructor.

Course materials

Scientific articles to be determined based on area of specialisation of student for the current semester.