Course content

The interpretation of gravity and magnetic data in exploration and regional studies with focus on integrated modelling of potential fields to improve seismic and geological interpretation in exploration and regional studies. Calculation and application of potential field attributes. Petrophysical properties of rocks. Potential field theory. Instrumentation. Gravity and magnetic measurements, processing, and map analysis. Anomalies from simple geometric models. Separation of anomalies. Fourier transform. Processing in the wave number domain, 1D and 2D. Direct and indirect methods. Available potential field databases in Norway.

Learning outcome

The students should have a good understanding of the application of gravimetry and magnetometry in interpretation and modelling, with special focus on application in exploration to crustal scale studies.

Knowledge:
The students should understand the main principles behind processing and interpretation of magnetic and gravity data and how these methods are exploited for improved understanding of onshore and offshore subsurface. The students will be able to perform processing, map production, interpretation and forward and inverse modelling using PC software.

General competence:
The students should understand how different methods are combined in geophysical interpretation to improve reliability and increase information availability. They should also be trained to use critical evaluation of data and models, and to present scientific work to others.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and exercises. Exercises are mandatory and comprise at least two days with fieldwork with gravity and magnetic data acquisition (will be scheduled for a weekend). The teaching may be given in English.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Further on evaluation

Portfolio assessment is the basis for the grade in the course. The portfolio includes a final oral exam (75%) and evaluation of compulsory exercises (25%). The results for the parts are given in %-scores, while the entire portfolio is assigned a letter grade. The examination papers may be given in English only. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for written assessments. For a re-take of an examination, all assessments during the course must be re-taken.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Course TPG4100 Physics and Geophysics or equivalent previous knowledge.

Course materials

Blakely, R.J., 1996. Potential Theory in Gravity and Magnetic Applications. Cambridge University Press.
ISBN: 0-521-57547-8
William J. Hinze, Ralph R. B. von Frese, Afif H. Saad, 2013. Gravity and Magnetic Exploration: Principles, Practices, and Applications.
Cambridge University Press, 512 pp.
Reeves, C., Aeromagnetic surveys: principles, practice & interpretation. e-Published by GEOSOFT (http://www.
geosoft.com/knowledge), 2005, 155 pp.

Credit reductions