Course content

The course provides an integrated introduction to general and applied geophysics, emphasizing the link between physical principles, Earth system understanding, and practical subsurface applications. It covers the structure and composition of the Earth, fundamental seismological and geochronological concepts, plate tectonics, and the Earth’s gravity and magnetic fields. These topics form the foundation for understanding how geophysical measurements reveal the dynamics and properties of the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core.

The applied part of the course introduces the principles, instrumentation, and data workflows of the main geophysical methods used in environmental, engineering, and resource contexts. These include seismic, electrical resistivity, induced polarization, electromagnetic induction, magnetics, gravity, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), radiometry, and borehole logging techniques.

Students learn to plan, acquire, process, and interpret geophysical data, linking measurement principles, instrument response, and processing workflows. Laboratory and small-scale field experiments provide hands-on experience with sensors and acquisition systems, while case examples demonstrate the integration of multiple geophysical datasets for geological and geotechnical interpretation.

Learning outcome

Competence

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

• Integrate physical principles and geophysical methods to analyse and interpret processes and structures in the Earth’s interior and near surface.
• Evaluate and select appropriate geophysical techniques for scientific, environmental, and engineering investigations, considering resolution, uncertainty, and cost-efficiency.
• Communicate and justify geophysical interpretations and their limitations to multidisciplinary audiences in a scientifically sound manner.

Knowledge and skills

After completing the course, the student shall be able to:

• Explain the Earth’s internal structure, plate tectonics, and the characteristics of the Earth’s gravity and magnetic fields.
• Describe how seismic, gravity, magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, radar, and logging methods are applied to study subsurface properties.
• Explain the operating principles of common geophysical instruments, including sources, sensors, and measurement configurations.
• Outline data acquisition and quality control procedures, including calibration, noise assessment, and repeatability checks.
• Apply basic workflows for data processing and visualisation (e.g., filtering, stacking, inversion, contour mapping, cross-section construction).
• Interpret geophysical observations in terms of physical parameters such as density, magnetisation, and electrical conductivity.
• Assess the suitability, resolution, and limitations of different geophysical methods for geological, environmental, and geotechnical problems.
• Conduct and document simple laboratory and field experiments demonstrating the relationship between physical parameters and measured geophysical responses.
• Communicate geophysical results effectively through reports, figures, and oral presentations using correct scientific terminology and graphical standards.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and compulsory exercises.

The course is evaluated by a student reference group.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Course TFY4104 Physics.

Course materials

Given at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions