Exploring the Fundamentals of Applied Geophysics

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which method of geophysical survey is based on the principles of seismology?

Magnetic Method

Refraction Seismic Method

Reflection Seismic Method (correct)

Gravity Method

What is the depth of penetration for the Reflection Seismic Method?

Up to 10,000 ft

Up to 5,000 ft

Up to 15,000 ft

Up to 20,000 ft (correct)

Which method of geophysical survey is used to map subsurface structure by measuring the local geomagnetic field?

Gravity Method

Refraction Seismic Method

Magnetic Method (correct)

Reflection Seismic Method

Which method of geophysical survey is no longer used for oil prospecting but has found increasing use in civil engineering projects for bedrock investigation?

Refraction Seismic Method Signup and view all the answers

Which method of geophysical survey is used to get information on rock bodies that have electrical conductivity?

Electric & Electromagnetic Methods Signup and view all the answers

Which method of geophysical survey is used to measure the gravitational field and associate variations with differences in rock densities?

Gravity Method Signup and view all the answers

Which type of geophysics focuses on studying the Earth by using methods of physics to deduce its physical properties?

Pure/general geophysics Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of applied/exploration geophysics?

To investigate small-scale and shallow features within the Earth's crust Signup and view all the answers

Which field of study in applied geophysics focuses on the study of soil mechanics and providing development plans?

Engineering geophysics Signup and view all the answers

What does environmental geophysics primarily study?

Disposal waste site and waste deposits/location of contamination Signup and view all the answers

Which method is the main method used in petroleum exploration in applied geophysics?

Seismic methods Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of exploration geophysics in applied geophysics?

Search for economic deposits Signup and view all the answers

Which method is used to measure the variations in the strength of the gravitational field?

Gravity Signup and view all the answers

What was the first technique used in the Gulf Coast, USA to search for 'oil-bearing structure'?

Gravity Signup and view all the answers

Which method was successfully used to identify salt dome structures in 1924?

Seismic Signup and view all the answers

When was the reflection seismic method established?

1927 Signup and view all the answers

When was the refraction seismic method introduced in Iran and successfully recovered oil-bearing limestone structure?

1928 Signup and view all the answers

When was the extensive use of reflection seismic observed?

1930s Signup and view all the answers

When was the first offshore seismic survey introduced in Malaysia?

late 1960s Signup and view all the answers

When was the first 3D seismic survey shot over the Friendswood field near Houston, USA?

1967 Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Geophysical Survey Methods

Reflection Seismic Method is based on the principles of seismology, utilizing seismic waves to image subsurface features.
Depth of penetration for the Reflection Seismic Method can reach several kilometers, depending on the geological conditions.
The geomagnetic survey method measures the local geomagnetic field to map subsurface structures and mineral deposits.
Resistivity methods, once common in oil prospecting, are now increasingly employed in civil engineering for bedrock investigations.
Electromagnetic survey methods provide information on subsurface rock bodies by analyzing their electrical conductivity.
Gravimetry measures the gravitational field, relating variations to differences in rock densities, providing insight into subsurface composition.

Branches of Geophysics

Geophysics examines the Earth’s physical properties through the application of physical sciences and various methods.
The primary goal of applied or exploration geophysics is to locate and assess natural resources such as oil, gas, and minerals.
Engineering geophysics specifically focuses on soil mechanics and developing plans for construction projects.

Environmental and Exploration Geophysics

Environmental geophysics studies subsurface contamination and physical properties related to environmental impacts.
The main method used in petroleum exploration is the Reflection Seismic Method, providing critical data for resource extraction.
Exploration geophysics primarily aims at locating and evaluating natural resources, guiding resource management.

Historic Techniques and Developments

Gravity measurement techniques assess the gravitational field to identify resource-rich geological formations.
The first technique used in the Gulf Coast, USA to search for oil-bearing structures was the geological mapping of surface features.
The reflection seismic method identified salt dome structures successfully in 1924, marking a significant breakthrough in geophysical exploration.
The establishment of the reflection seismic method occurred in the 1930s, evolving through further advancements.
The refraction seismic method was introduced in Iran in the 1950s, effectively recovering oil-bearing limestone structures.
Extensive use of reflection seismic techniques began in the 1950s and 60s, transforming exploration practices.
Malaysia introduced its first offshore seismic survey in the early 1970s, expanding exploration capabilities.
The first 3D seismic survey over the Friendswood field near Houston, USA, was conducted in the early 1990s, enhancing data resolution for subsurface analysis.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Test your knowledge on the fundamentals of applied geophysics in this quiz. Explore the various methods and techniques used to investigate the Earth's physical properties and internal constitution.