Advanced Exploration Geophysics

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Report results from processing, analysis and interpretation of geophysical data clearly and professionally.
• Understand the core theory and practice underlying a variety of exploration geophysical methods
• Interpret geophysical data to determine characteristics of both natural and anthropogenic features of the subsurface.
• Process and model geophysical data to determine key aspects of subsurface structure.

The module covers, at advanced level, three topics that are central to applied geophysics in the marine environment: reflection seismology; potential field methods; and electrical and electromagnetic methods. The study of reflection seismology accounts for nearly half of the course. Seismic processing operations are introduced, such as correlation, deconvolution, frequency filtering, moveout corrections, and migration. The module uses examples relevant to the energy transition, including seismic stratigraphy and 3D surveying. Computer-based practical exercises include both seismic processing and interpretation. In the potential fields component, advanced methods for anomaly separation and filtering, based on spectral analysis and spatial derivatives, are introduced. Different approaches are reviewed and practical experience is gained through computer modelling and analysis exercises. There is a particular focus on magnetic surveying and its applications to offshore engineering and the energy transition. The component covering electrical/electromagnetic methods will focus on the resistivity method and on controlled source electromagnetic methods as applied in marine survey operations. Both the underlying theory and the fundamentals of data acquisition and processing are addressed. Computer-based practical exercises provide experience in examining the sensitivity of this type of data to resistivity anomalies in the sub-surface.

Formal Lectures: will deal with geophysical exploration with particular emphasis on potential field methods, electrical/electromagnetic methods and advanced reflection seismology. Where relevant, lecturers' own research experience in the appropriate fields is brought into the lecturing sessions. Laboratory Classes: will further develop your processing, modelling and data interpretation skills.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.