APPLIED PHYSICS TO THE EARTH

The course aims to provide the student with the basic elements and the state of the art of the knowledge of Terrestrial Physics: knowledge of the physical processes underlying the dynamics of deformative phenomena of the Earth’s crust; knowledge of geophysical survey methodologies based on physical processes. Knowledge of terrestrial gravitational field and magnetic field and their origin. Acquisition of knowledge in the field of nuclear geophysics and geothermal.

Knowledge and understanding

Critical understanding of the main physical phenomena responsible for geodynamic events. Understanding of the methods of investigation of the fundamental physical mechanisms that take place in the earth’s crust.

Ability to apply knowledge and understanding

Ability to use the tool of analogy to apply solutions to new problems (problem solving), in different geophysical contexts, based on the knowledge acquired in the field of physics applied to the earth system.

Communication skills

Communication skills in Terrestrial Physics.

Learning ability

Acquisition of adequate cognitive tools for the continuous updating of knowledge and the ability to access specialized literature both in the field of terrestrial physics and in fields scientifically close.

Oral lectures will be held. The teacher is available for more detailed information and explainations.

Should the circumstances require online or blended teaching, appropriate modifications to what is hereby stated may be introduced, in order to achieve the main objectives of the course.

Exams may take place online, depending on circumstances.

Structure and dynamics of the Earth: Structure and composition of the Earth. Physical methods for the study of the composition of rocks. Outline of tectonic structures: Folds, Faults, Fractures, Margins, Hot spots. Dynamics and thermodynamics of the Earth. Plate dynamics. Physical methods for the study of soil deformations. Volcanic activity. Physical methods for the study of the internal structure of volcanoes. Seismic risk. Physical methods for the detection of precursors of geodynamic events.
Terrestrial rotation. Terrestrial gravitational field. Geoid, gravimeters. Isostasy theory. Terrestrial magnetic field. Phenomenology of the geomagnetic field. Magnetic properties of rocks: paleomagnetism and magnetism of rocks.

Nuclear geophysics: Natural radioactivity of rocks; radioactive processes within the earth’s crust. Terrestrial radionuclides in different lithologies. Main radioactive isotopes in-soil: Radon, Thoron. Radon anomalies and geodynamic phenomena. Radioactivity for the detection of faults and for the study of the internal structure of volcanoes. The problem of NORM. Disposal and storage of radioactive waste: geological and environmental aspects. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and its applications in Geophysics. Radiometric dating methods. The age of the earth: Isotopic dating.

Geothermal: Historical background. Origin of the terrestrial heat. Geothermal energy and possible applications. Geothermal and environmental impact.

Teaching material provided by the teacher at each lesson.