EAE4066 - Applied geophysics and earth imaging - 2019

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL

Undergraduate, Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Faculty

Science

Organisational Unit

School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Robin Armit

Coordinator(s)

Dr Robin Armit
Dr Laurent Ailleres

Unit guides

Offered

Clayton

  • First semester 2019 (On-campus block of classes)

Prerequisites

Enrolment in the Master of Science.

Prohibitions

EAE5066

Synopsis

This course will introduce the concept of a GIS as a problem solving technology within the geosciences and is designed to provide practical experience in the processing of regional geophysical datasets for the purpose of undertaking geological interpretation.

Specific topics will include map projections and georeferencing, distortions in image data, raster and vector data models, incorporating digital terrain models and geophysical data, introduction to boolean logic and functions, data accuracy and access issues and limitations of GIS. The course is designed to allow the student to go through step-by-step methodologies of processing data, interpretation techniques, and modelling of geophysical data.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

  1. An ability to identify the kind of digital information and software most appropriate to solving different geological problems.
  2. An opportunity to demonstrate their ability to work with state-of-the-art geological data sets in digital form.
  3. Confidence and competence to interrogate geological problems employing modern digital techniques.
  4. Equip students with discipline-specific knowledge and expertise appropriate for post-graduate research in the field; equip students with discipline-specific knowledge and expertise enabling them to take their place as professional geologists in industry or government organisations;
  5. Develop skills to process regional geophysical datasets, develop strategies to interpret geology from regional aeromagnetic and gravity data, integrate geological data into the geophysical interpretation, practical experience in geophysical interpretation and best practices in modeling geophysical data.

Assessment

8 x GIS based practical assignments, due during the teaching week (each worth 5%).

A GIS based assignment (10%) as a 500 word report which will include a series of map to communicate their findings is due by the last day of class.

A 2000-word equivalent interpretation of geophysical images including lithologies, structures and overprinting relationship, due by last day of classes (30%).

An accompanying report (3000-words) on the rationale for interpretation and a short tectonic history of the area consistent with the interpretation due by the last day of classes (20%).

Workload requirements

  • 28 hours of lectures,
  • 42 hours of practicals,
  • 16 hours of independent study

See also Unit timetable information

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Master of Science (Honours)