Module OSX-4020:
Geophysical Surveying
Geophysical Surveying 2024-25
OSX-4020
2024-25
School of Ocean Sciences
Module - Semester 1
20 credits
Module Organiser:
Dei Huws
Overview
In list form, the syllabus can be summarised thus:
Seismic Surveying
a. Propagation of seismic waves in the subsurface b. Field hardware c. Seismic refraction surveying d. Seismic reflection surveying e. Seismic data processing f. Seismic interpretation
Electrical and electro-magnetic surveying
a. Underlying theory b. Data acquisition techniques c. Interpretation techniques d. Application to terrestrial and marine studies
In list form, the syllabus can be summarised thus:
Seismic surveying
a. Propagation of seismic waves in the subsurface b. Field hardware c. Seismic refraction surveying d. Seismic reflection surveying e. Seismic data processing f. Seismic interpretation
Electrical and electro-magnetic surveying
a. Underlying theory b. Data acquisition techniques c. Interpretation techniques d. Application to terrestrial and marine studies
Assessment Strategy
Threshold: C
A partial understanding of the principles of geophysics (within the scope of the curriculum, learning outcomes and skills outlined here) Basic appreciation and some understanding of the underlying theory and potential limitations/power of geophysical techniques for sub-surface imaging and geological interpretation Basic ability to solve numerical problems associated geophysical investigation Basic ability to acquire, process, interpret and present geophysical data
Good: B
A complete understanding of the principles of geophysics (within the scope of the curriculum, learning outcomes and skills outlined here) Comprehensive appreciation and limited understanding of the underlying theory and potential limitations/power of geophysical techniques for sub-surface imaging and geological interpretation Ability to solve numerical problems associated geophysical investigation Ability to acquire, process, interpret and present geophysical data
Excellent: A
Thorough understanding of the principles of geophysics (within the scope of the curriculum, learning outcomes and skills outlined here) Highly developed appreciation and limited understanding of the underlying theory and potential limitations/power of geophysical techniques for sub-surface imaging and geological interpretation Highly developed ability to solve numerical problems associated geophysical investigationHighly developed ability to acquire, process, interpret and present geophysical data
Learning Outcomes
- Upon successful completion of this module, the student should be able to acquire, process, interpret and present (in report form) geophysical data using appropriate theory and software
- Upon successful completion of this module, the student should be able to show an appreciation of the limitations of the geophysical method in modelling the earth's subsurface and interpreting the results in terms of sub-surface geology.
- Upon successful completion of this module, the student should have knowledge of the hardware and software used in the field of environmental and engineering geophysics
- Upon successful completion of this module, the student should understand the physics which governs the earth's geophysical response, specifically in relation to seismic, electrical, and electro-magnetic techniques.
Assessment method
Coursework
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Resistivity Excercise - case study exercise
Weighting
20%
Due date
18/10/2024
Assessment method
Report
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Fieldwork Report Students will be conducting two field geophysical surveys at local sites and will write a report for one of the visits, detailing the background, theory, methods, results, interpretation, discussion and conclusions i.e. this is an opportunity to learn and hone their report writing skills.
Weighting
40%
Due date
13/12/2024
Assessment method
Exam (Centrally Scheduled)
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
OSX4020 Examination A formal exam that will cover all aspects of the curriculum and the Learning Outcomes listed below. It comprises three sections: Section A is a series of relatively short questions, for which there is choice allowed e.g. answer 5 out of 8. Sections B and C are of the same format - answer one out of two. Recommended time spent on each section will be specified and calculated on the basis of the relative weighting of each section. Past papers are made available to students; a Sway document will also give exam advice; and a revision session is also laid-on in the latter weeks of the semester.
Weighting
40%