Physical Geodesy and Geophysics

This course covers the study of the Earth’s physical fields, particularly the gravitational field and its effect on geodetic quantities. It also discusses certain geophysical methods and their applications in engineering geodesy and mining surveying. The analysis of the Earth’s physical fields, aimed at addressing issues related to its shape and structure (the Earth’s internal structure—particularly the structure of the Earth’s crust and upper mantle, etc.), is an integral part of the integration of these two methods.
The significance of both methods lies in their application and the ability to address issues in the fields of general, structural, and mineral deposit geology (searching for mineral deposits; locating faults, etc.), as well as addressing issues in the fields of engineering geology, environmental geology, hydrogeology, and geodynamics, among others. New satellite-based geophysical and geodetic methods also enable global applications and forecasting of mineral resource potential, risks, and hazards.
Taking into account the physical principles and nature of the fields we measure and analyze, the following geophysical methods are included in the course: - gravimetry (gravitational field), - geomagnetism (Earth’s geomagnetic field), - geoelectric methods (both natural and artificially induced geoelectric fields), - seismic surveying and seismology (wave field), - radionuclide methods (radioactive field), - geothermics (thermal field).
Expertise: Students will gain knowledge of the Earth’s physical fields, their characteristics, and their influence on geodetic measurements and quantities. They will become familiar with the principles of gravimetry, geomagnetism, geoelectric methods, seismic surveying and seismology, radionuclide methods, and geothermics, as well as the possibilities for their application in the study of the Earth’s structure and evolution.
Professional Skills: Students will be able to navigate basic geophysical methods, select an appropriate method based on the nature of the task at hand, and interpret the results in the context of geodetic, geological, and engineering problems. They are able to apply the basic principles of physical geodesy and geophysics when solving problems in engineering geodesy and mining surveying.
General Competence: The student is able to independently assess the applicability of physical and geophysical methods in solving professional problems, critically interpret their results, and integrate knowledge of physical geodesy and geophysics with issues in geology, geodynamics, mineral exploration, hydrogeology, and the environment.