05-BGW-GD2-a Seismology and Earth`s Potential Fields (ab WiSe 2025/26)

The seismology course is divided in theoretical and a practical part. The theory part treats the physics of seismic wavefields and how seismic waves can be measured. The practical part with exercises focusses on how to locate an earthquake, calculate its magnitude, determine its focal mechanism and use earthquake catalogues for analysis of seismicity.

The second course dives into Earth`s potential fields, focusing on gravitational and magnetic fields. In this course, we will explore the fundamental potential field theory, learn how to analyze and interpret regional gravity and geomagnetic data, and master techniques forward and inverse modeling to understand subsurface structures. Hands-on exercises will be key, helping you apply these concepts to real-world scenarios.

• comprehend and apply the properties and the propagation of seismic wave fields emitted by earthquakes
• locate the hypocentre of an earthquake, calculate its magnitude, determine the focal mechanism and use earthquake catalogues

• Deep understanding of potential field theory, gravity, and geomagnetism.
• Proficiency in data reduction, forward and inverse modeling techniques for potential fields.
• Ability to interpret potential field data and derive geological information.
• Practical experience with relevant software for potential field analysis.

Grundlagen Angewandte Geophysik / Principles of Applied Geophysics

Course Type 1: Lecture, Exercise (L+E) 2.0 SWS ( 28.0 h)

Course Type 2: Lecture, Exercise (L+E) 2.0 SWS ( 28.0 h)

Tutorial(s): -

56.0 h presence time
84.0 h self-study
40.0 h exam workload

180 h total workload

combination exam

exam elements: 2
SL: 0

70 % oral exam
30 % Portfolio

Course work portfolio including figure & formula sheet on individual in-depth exam topic is presented at exam

1) Lowrie, 2007. Fundamentals of geophysics, Cambridge University Press
2) Stein and Wysession, 2003. An introduction to seismology, earthquakes, and earth structure, Blackwell Publishing
3) Merrill, McElhinny & McFadden, 1998. The Magnetic Field of the Earth - Paleomagnetism, the Core and the Deep Mantle, Academic Press
4) Lecture scripts und special publications made available in Stud.IP