coursemapLoading course
Research School of Physics · ANU College of Science and Medicine
The course is an introduction to physics of the solid Earth intended for students with substantial background in physics and mathematics including calculus. The course will provide an overview of the structure and evolution of the Earth as a dynamic planet within our solar system. Physical principles will be applied to the following topics: theory of elasticity and elastic wave propagation; modern global seismology as a probe of the Earth's internal structure; earthquakes and the description of seismic sources; a simple but fundamental theory of thermal convection; the distinctive rheological behaviour of the upper mantle and its top layer, controlled by significant changes in the mechanical properties of the material, will then be explored to arrive at a comprehensive description of what forces drive and resist global plate motions. This course is co-taught with undergraduate students but assessed separately.
Examination
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Homework assignments
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Lab assignments
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Oral presentations
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Selected topic literature review and presentation
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: • Face-to face component which may consist of 3 x 1 hour lectures, 1 x 1 hour tutorial per week and 4 x 3 hour lab sessions throughout the semester. • Approximately 70 hours of self directed study which will include preparation for lectures and other assessment tasks.
N/A Preliminary Reading - Bolt, B. (2004) Earthquakes, Freeman & Co. (QE534.3 .B65 2004) - Shearer, P.M. (1999) Introduction to Seismology, Cambridge University Press (QE534.2 .S455 1999) - available online as a pdf - Davies, G. F. (1999) Dynamic Earth, Cambridge University Press (QE509.4 .D38 1999) - Poirier, J.P. (1991) Introduction to the Physics of the Earth's Interior, Cambridge University Press (QE509.P64 1991) - Stacey, F.D. (1992) Physics of the Earth, 3rd Edn., Brookfield Press (QC806.S65 1992) - Turcotte, D.L. & Schubert, G. (2002) Geodynamics 2nd Edn, Cambridge University Press, (QE501.T83 2002)