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Physics of the Earth (PHAS0057)

Key information

Faculty
Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Teaching department
Physics and Astronomy
Credit value
15
Restrictions
Students taking the module will require a background in mathematics to first year standard. The module will require an understanding of partial differentiation, vector calculus and spherical harmonic representation of potential fields.
Timetable

Alternative credit options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

Outline and Aims:

This module aims to introduce Physics undergraduates to the subject of Global Geophysics with the emphasis on the application of mathematical and physical principles to understand the large-scale structured evolution of the Earth鈥檚 surface, its deep interior and its climate.

Teaching and Learning Methodology:

This module is delivered via weekly lectures supplemented by a series of workshops and additional discussion.

In addition to timetabled lecture hours, it is expected that students engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form, for example, of practicing example questions and further reading in textbooks and online.

Indicative Topics:

Origin of the Solar system: Models for the formation of the solar system, Origin of the elements Meteorite types and compositions, Chemical fractionation, Accretion and chemical layering of planets, Age determination by radioactive decay processes

Earth mass, density and gravity: Gravity and Gravitational potential of a sphere, Mass and density of the Earth, Experiments of Nevil Maskelyne, Experiments of Von Jolly, Satellite determination, Precession and Nutation, difference between topography, geoid and ellipsoid

Earth gravity representation and anomalies: Figure of the Earth/Earth rotation/Deflection of the vertical, Gravitational potential/Laplace鈥檚 equation, Spherical harmonic representation/Moments of inertia. Geopotential/Clairault鈥檚 theorem, International gravity formula, Measurements of gravity, E枚tv枚s/Free air/Bouguer corrections, Isostatic compensation/Postglacial rebound, Gravity anomalies

Satellite geodesy: Satellite orbits, precession, Satellite measurement of J2, Satellite altimetric geoid

Earth magnetism and plate tectonics: Earth's magnetic field/Secular variation, Magnetic reversals, Remnant magnetism; Paleomagnetic pole drift, Ocean floor magnetisation/age/spreading, Continental drift, Mid-ocean spreading ridges/subduction/fracture zones, Measurement of plate motions, Driving forces for plate motion

Earthquakes: Types of wave; Nomenclature of body waves, Earthquake mechanisms, Location of deep and shallow earthquakes, Earthquake magnitudes; Comparison with underground nuclear tests

Seismology: Waves and vibrations in solids, Seismographs and arrays, Travel time curves, Seismic ray parameter, Effects of layering, Major subdivisions of Earth, Velocity depth derivation

Earth's Climate: Planetary Equilibrium Temperature, Greenhouse Effect, Earth's Climate System, Oceans, Cryosphere

Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year

Intended teaching term: Term 1 听听听 Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 6)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
90% Exam
10% Coursework
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
30
Module leader
Professor Anasuya Aruliah
Who to contact for more information
a.aruliah@ucl.ac.uk

Intended teaching term: Term 1 听听听 Postgraduate (FHEQ Level 6)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
90% Exam
10% Coursework
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
6
Module leader
Professor Anasuya Aruliah
Who to contact for more information
a.aruliah@ucl.ac.uk

Last updated

This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.

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Useful links

Sustainability

For a list of modules related to climate change as well as social and environmental sustainability at 果冻影院, type 'climate' or 'sustainability' into the search. Visit Sustainable 果冻影院 for information on extra-curricular activity on sustainability.

Important information

The catalogue has been updated with key information about the modules that will run during the 2024/25 academic session. Current and prospective students can browse through the catalogue to consider possible module choices for the coming year.

Please note,听information in the catalogue is听subject to change as teaching and assessment arrangements for 2024/25 may need to be adjusted in line with the University's Feedback and Assessment principles and operating model.

Centrally managed exam durations will be provided on students' individual exam timetables. Arrangements for locally managed timed assessments and in-class activity will be confirmed by the teaching department for the module.

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