WHAT IS GEOPHYSICS?
Geophysics is the application of physics to problems in geology,
or the Earth's physical environment. Most people are familiar with
a branch of geophysics known as seismology. Besides seismology, (seismic
is the abbreviation often used) geophysicists use magnetic and gravity
fields, as well as electromagnetic fields, to probe the subsurface. Ground
penetrating radar, magnetic resonance imaging, and remote sensing from
satellites, are also used.
OK, here's the real story.
WHAT DO GEOPHYSICISTS
DO?
Geophysics is a very broad field so geophysicists do
a lot of different things. In Western Canada, most geophysicists work
in the oil and gas industry or the mineral exploration industry. A smaller
number work in the environmental field and this area is expected to grow
in the future. Recent
graduates from the U of S geophysics program are looking for oil
and gas, diamonds, gold and even water. Although our program specializes
in exploration geophysics, many geophysicists work in other areas,
for example oceanography, atmospheric dynamics or the robotic exploration
of Mars!
HERE IS WHAT A MINING
GEOPHYSICIST HAS TO SAY ABOUT HIS JOB
As a geophysicist in the mining industry, you are exposed
to a number of geophysical survey techniques applied in various environments.
Historically, canada has played a leading role in the development and application
of the survey equipment and techniques presently used in the industry.
Electromagnetic, potential field, seismic and DC mapping techniques all
play a role in exploring for and developing various mineral deposits. Near
surface mining technologies, such as resistivity mapping, are
more widely used as environmental applications of geophysics become more common. As a recent graduate,
a geophysicist can initially expect to perform, take part in or monitor,
geophysical surveys in the field. This is followed by a period of survey
planning, interpretation and report writing within an exploration office.
All work is completed as a coordinated part of an exploration team. As
exploration is pushed to greater depths, geophysics plays a stronger role
in the evaluation of exploration plays. If you enjoy travelling, the outdoors,
and have strong computer and interpersonal skills, then mining geophysics
will provide a challenging career for you.
Here is what a ten year old girl has to say about being a geophysicist.
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