Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives This subject aims to provide an essential formation in using methods in physics to study the internal structure of the earth and the physical processes operating in the earth's interior; provide background for understanding thermal evolution of the earth, mantle and lithospheric dynamics.
Synopsis This unit examines the earth's physical properties and our methods of measuring them on a global scale. Topics covered include global seismology and the internal structure of the earth, earthquakes, thermal evolution of the earth, plate tectonics and the physical properties of lithosphere and mantle, elastic flexure of the lithosphere, post-glacial uplift and earth rotation.
Assessment Practical assignments: 40% + Continuous assessment: 10% + 2 hour examination: 50%