Course content

Geophysical mapping and interpretation methods used in exploration for natural resources (ores, industrial minerals, hydrocarbons), and other geological - as well as environmental tasks. The focus of the course will be on gravimetry, and magnetometry, and its integration with other exploration methods, physical properties and measurements of density, susceptibility, and natural remanent magnetization. The application of magnetic mineralogy and magnetic petrology is used in understanding lithospheric magnetization, and magnetic mapping, from the mineral to regional scale. We focus on the interpretation and modelling of gravity and magnetic anomalies. This course contributes to FN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 and 7; SDG-4 (Quality education) by the course content filling a multidisciplinary learning space with a wide range of applications and environmental challenges, as e.g., environmental magnetism. The learning space combines state of the art digital software (MODELVISION), with lectures and tasks to develop a solid insight into the methods use. SDG-7 goal (Affordable and clean energy) is directly related to this course because the geophysical methods are necessary for future exploitation of energy resources. Furthermore, the course contributes to sustainability with a focus on gravity and magnetic methods, which are non-invasive exploration techniques.

Learning outcome

Knowledge: Fundamental understanding of gravity and magnetic methods used in geophysical exploration for natural resources, other geological and environmental applications focused on- and offshore Norway and related physical properties of minerals and rocks. Through project work an understanding of the relationships between physical rock properties and geophysical responses of rocks.

Skills: The students should be able to successfully perform their interdisciplinary scientific project combining geology and basic geophysics and present the results to the class. Students will acquire magnetic data in the field and use modeling programs in potential field methods. After successful completion of the course students should be able to include gravity, magnetic and other geophysical data into programs designed to explore for natural resources and into other geological/environmental applications.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures will include geophysical principles and methodology with a focus on gravity and magnetics, petrophysical properties of minerals and rocks, magnetic mineralogy and petrology in relation to lithospheric magnetization and magnetic mapping. Practice in applying methods for different types of resources and applications, both on- and offshore, by use of modelling software. Fieldwork over one weekend is obligatory. Compulsory project and laboratory exercises will include self-study, which will include practice in applying geophysical methods including professional gravity and magnetic software and concepts for exploration of a variety of natural resources (e.g. ore deposits, ultra pure quartz, building stones, and hydrocarbons) and other geological and environmental applications. Laboratory exercises will include petrophysical and detailed magnetic measurements of different rock types. There are additional compulsory exercises not amounting to the final grade in the course. The course is evaluated by a reference group.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises
• 2 projects with reports and presentations

Required previous knowledge

Basic knowledge in geology, physics and chemistry.

Course materials

Articles and sections from various textbooks.