OVERVIEW

The aim of the course is to provide basic knowledge of the physics of planet Earth and of the main methodologies used to study the Earth's shape and interior, as well as to understand geodynamic processes.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course focuses on the structure of the Earth system and the rocks that compose it, in order to define and interpret the dynamics of Earth's tectonic plates, with particular emphasis on the study of physical parameters.

The learning objective is pursued through the discussion of methodologies for the analysis and interpretation of seismic, gravimetric, rheological, magnetic, and thermal data, addressing both theoretical and experimental foundations. These methodologies are considered at both global scale—such as plate tectonics—and regional scale

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Knowledge and Understanding

At the end of the course, students are expected to:

have a basic understanding of the physical aspects of planet Earth;

be familiar with the main geophysical investigation methods for Earth observation;

understand the physical structure of the Earth system and the rocks that compose it;

be aware of the specific features of various geophysical applications in relation to geological problems;

evaluate the validity of theoretical hypotheses in quantitative terms.

Applying Knowledge and Understanding

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

identify the fundamental physical processes acting within the Earth and define geodynamic models;

describe the different geophysical methods covered in terms of data acquisition, processing, and modeling;

correctly use quantitative measurements in the description of geophysical processes and models;

discuss and integrate methods for the analysis and interpretation of seismic, gravimetric, rheological, magnetic, thermal, and electrical data, considering both theoretical and experimental aspects, at both global and regional scales;

apply geophysical methods to practical examples, including the assessment of natural and anthropogenic hazards.

Making Judgements

By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to:

assess the most suitable geophysical methodologies for different scales of investigation;

evaluate the characteristics of the data and the reliability of geophysical surveys.

Communication Skills

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

use the technical language of geophysics appropriately;

interact with professionals involved in geophysical investigations, both in research and in professional practice.

Learning Skills

By the end of the course, students are expected to have developed autonomous study skills and critical thinking regarding the physical characteristics of the Earth system and the applicability and usefulness of different geophysical methods in various geological contexts.

PREREQUISITES

To effectively engage with the course content, students are expected to have prior knowledge of mathematics and physics as covered in Bachelor's degree programmesOrigin and Evolution of Planet Earth.

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of classroom lectures.

Since the course includes activities aimed at applying the acquired knowledge, attendance at lectures and laboratory exercises is strongly recommended.

Classroom lectures are delivered using multimedia presentations.

Students with a valid certification of physical or learning disabilities, filed with the University, who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other matters related to lectures, assignments, or exams, are encouraged to speak with both the instructor and Professor Sara Ferrando (sara.ferrando@unige.it), the Department’s disability contact person.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Planetary motion, Earth system, geochronology, global tectonics.

Gravity and Earth’s Shape

Variations in the rotation axis, gravity and the Earth's ellipsoid, gravity measurements and anomalies, geoid and isostatic compensation, lithospheric thickness in isostatic regions.

Seismology and Internal Structure

Elastic deformation, seismic waves and seismometers, propagation of elastic waves (P, S, and surface waves), earthquakes, seismicity, and internal structure of the planet.

Heat Within the Earth

Thermal conduction, terrestrial heat flow, surface temperature, thermal structure of the lithosphere, thermal state of the mantle and core, geodynamic implications of convection.

Geomagnetism

Magnetization, remanent magnetization, Earth's magnetic field, reference field and anomalies, secular variation, paleomagnetism, short-term variations, natural electric currents.

Elasticity and Fracture

Linear elasticity, uniaxial and plane stress and strain, stress on an inclined plane, pure and simple shear, isotropic and triaxial stress, elastic bending, bending of geological structures, fracture processes.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All slides used during the lessons, the exercises proposed during the lessons, and other teaching/bibliographic material made available on AulaWeb and provided by the instructors during each cycle of lessons/laboratory exercises. The suggested books are indicated as support texts, but students may also use other university-level texts.

Recommended texts:

Fowler C. M. R., 2004. “ The Solid Earth: An Introduction to Global Geophysics”, Cambridge University Press.

Pasquale V., 2011. “GEOFISICA”, ECIG-Edizioni Culturali Internazionali Genova

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

For the detailed timetable, please consult the following link: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Class schedule

TERRESTRIAL PHYSICS

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of an oral assessment.

During the oral exam, students are required to answer questions posed by the instructors on topics covered during the course.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Details on how to prepare for the exam and the level of depth required for each topic will be provided during the lectures.

The oral exam aims to assess whether the student has achieved an adequate level of knowledge of the topics covered in the classroom lectures and to evaluate the ability to recall theoretical concepts and apply them to concrete contexts using appropriate methodologies.

The ability to apply theoretical knowledge, engage in critical thinking, demonstrate strategic reasoning, and solve problems will also be monitored during classroom and field exercises.

Clarity of presentation and the use of correct technical terminology will be part of the evaluation.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Regular and consistent attendance at lectures is strongly recommended.