OVERVIEW

Applied Geophysics studies the distribution of the physical properties in the shallower solid Earth by non-invasive methods. It is a fundamental part in the exploration of energy, mineral and hydric resources and has geotechnical and environmental applications.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course provides a general introduction to the basic principles of geophysical exploration and monitoring. An overview is furnished about geophysical signal elaboration and the most important applied methods on subsoil investigation, instruments and physical parameters of the geophysical prospecting and a first approach to data processing and their geological interpretation.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Attending the activities, the student will get the general knowledge of the geoelectrical and seismic refraction methods necessary in the Earth sciences for technical consultancies and scientific researches.

The student will be able to:

• to know and describe the geoelectrical and seismic refraction methods
• to select the right study methods to solve specific problems
• to interpret measurement results and show them qualitatively and quantitatively

PREREQUISITES

To face the course the following basic knowledge in Solid Earth Geophysics are necessary: 1) elastic and electrical properties  of natural materials; 2) propagation of elastic waves

TEACHING METHODS

The course is made by frontal lessons. Since test during the course are planned, attending lessons is strongly encouraged. Frontal lessons may use multimedia presentationsThe course is made by frontal lessons. Since test during the course are planned, attending lessons is strongly encouraged. Frontal lessons may use multimedia presentations

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The contents of the course are:

1. Definition of geophysical signal and classification. Sampling of analogic signals. Signals in time and frequency domains. Geophysical models
2. Geoelectrical methods: electrical resistivities; potential and electric lines in homogeneous and not homogeneous materials; apparent resistivities; instruments; vertical electric sounding; horizontal profiles; electrical tomography; interpretation
3. Refraction seismic methods: velocity of seismic waves; refraction, reflection, diffraction; energy decay; travel time equations; Zoeppritz equations; instruments. Travel time analysis for plane horizontal refractor, not horizontal and undulated refractor. Plus-minus method and wave front method; refraction tomography.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All didactical materials used during lessons will be available on AulaWeb

Books:

J. M. Reynolds. An Introduction to Applied and Environmental Geophysics. John Wiley and Sons.
W. M. Telford, L. P. Geldart, R. E. Sheriff . Applied Geophysics. Cambridge University Press.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

EGIDIO ARMADILLO (President)

GABRIELE FERRETTI

DANIELE SPALLAROSSA

MASSIMO VERDOYA (President Substitute)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Please follow this link:

http://www.distav.unige.it/ccsgeo/orario-lezioni

Class schedule

APPLIED GEOPHYSICS

EXAMS

Exam schedule