Unit information: Geophysical Data Analysis and Modelling in 2020/21

Unit name	Geophysical Data Analysis and Modelling
Unit code	EASC30054
Credit points	10
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1A (weeks 1 - 6)
Unit director	Dr. Werner
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	EASC20041
Co-requisites	N/A
School/department	School of Earth Sciences
Faculty	Faculty of Science

Description including Unit Aims

This unit will introduce students to a range of methodologies used for the transformation and interpretation of geophysical digital data. Using a combination of lectures and computer-based practicals (using MATLAB) both the mathematic principles behind and the practical applications of these methodologies will be taught.

The course has three components. Firstly, common methodologies applied to geophysical data (including spectral methods) will be covered. The second component will introduce forward modelling, including analytical and commonly used numerical techniques such as finite-difference and finite-element models. Finally, the course will introduce the concept of inversion, and cover basic inverse theory as well as the practical aspects of its application.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course students will:

• Understand the principles behind common time-series data processing techniques
• Understand the concept of forward modelling.
• Understand the principles behind some common forward modelling methods.
• Understand the basic principle of inversion
• Understand the mathematical basis of linear inversion
• Appreciate some of the situations which arise in the practice of inversion
• Be able to practically apply (in MATLAB) a range of common data processing algorithms
• Be able to translate a simple analytical model into code
• Be able to apply a provided more complex forward model
• Be able to write code to assess the fit of a model to some data
• Be able to run a simple iterative linear inversion to determine best fitting parameter.

Teaching Information

The unit will be taught through a combination of

• asynchronous online materials and, if subsequently possible, synchronous face-to-face lectures
• synchronous office hours
• asynchronous directed individual formative activities and exercises
• guided, structured reading
• practical work in the laboratory

Students who either begin or continue their studies in an online mode may be required to complete laboratory work, or alternative activities, in person, either during the academic year 2020/21 or subsequently, in order to meet the intended learning outcomes for the unit, prepare them for subsequent units or to satisfy accreditation requirements.

Assessment Information

End-of-unit timed open-book examination (100%)

Reading and References

Recommended:

• David Gubbins: ‘Time Series and Inverse Theory’, CUP, 2006.
• Frank Scherbaum: ‘Of poles and zeros’, Springer, 2001