GEOPHYSICS

Geophysics, a major branch of the Earth sciences and a sub discipline of Physics, is the study of the Earth by quantitative physical methods, especially by seismic, electromagnetic, and radioactivity methods. As the name implies, geophysics involves the application of physical theories and measurements to discover the properties of the earth. Geophysics is the term used to describe the study of the Earth's surface, core, geological levels and anything impacting the planet such as gravity, electric and magnetic forces. Geophysics is applied to societal needs, such as mineral resources, mitigation of natural hazards and environmental protection. Career fields in geophysics include working in magnetics, seismology and geodesy.

Although geophysics was only recognized as a separate discipline in the 19th century, its origin dates back to ancient history. Many geophysical phenomena such as earth's magnetic field and earthquakes have been investigated since the ancient era. The first magnetic compass and use of geophysics for navigation, exploration dates back to ancient period. Geophysicists study the structure, composition and the physical aspects of the earth and its atmosphere and apply scientific principles in order to solve problems. These scientists use geophysical methods to study the Earth and its composition, including its atmosphere, internal make-up, oceans, electrical and other fields.

Geophysicists, involved in field investigation measure, examine, and explore the physical properties of earth, from below the ground to the atmosphere or from the depths of the ocean to the top of the volcanoes. Geophysicists are involved mostly in environmental studies, archaeological excavations, water resource management, forensic investigations, the Earth's climate, and the causes and prediction of natural phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, landslides and tsunamis. Geophysicists examine the physical aspects of earth with the help of radar, dynamite, computers, magnetometers and gravimeters. Geophysics being an interdisciplinary field, will apply the principles and concepts of physics, mathematics, geology and engineering to the study of the physical characteristics of the Earth and other planets. Exploration for coal, petroleum, minerals and water, concern about the environment, and the disposal of hazardous waste are just a few of the challenging areas which will require the skills of trained geophysicists. Geophysics can be divided into two broad categories (i) whole earth geophysics, and (ii) applied geophysics. Whole earth geophysics or global geophysics involves the study of physical processes spanning the entire earth such as those associated with plate tectonics, earthquakes and the earth�s magnetic field. Applied geophysics involves the application of geophysical principles and methods for locating subsurface petroleum, mineral deposits, and water supplies, the investigation of subsurface structures, etc. Geophysicists may specialize their study in areas like the Earth's magnetic and gravitational fields, planetary movement and seismic activity.




To become a Geophysicist a degree in earth science, geophysics or geology is required. Those with a strong background in physics, mathematics or computer science can take a course in Geophysics. Geophysics can be studied at the masters and Ph.D. levels. IIT's in India offer M.Sc/ M.Sc.-Ph.D Dual Degree programme. For M.Sc. program in geophysics, candidates with minimum 50 per cent mark in B.Sc mathematics and physics as subjects are eligible. Positions in research requires masters degree. Studies include a foundation in geology, geophysics, physics, mathematics and chemistry and geophysical fundamentals covering geophysical exploration, global studies, rock properties, and data acquisition methods.

To start a career in Geology, one should complete some Geology courses such as M.A. or M. Sc. in Geology. Some of the institutes in India offering Geology courses are Aligarh Muslim University, Andhra University, Annamalai University, Amravati University, Banaras Hindu University, etc.The Union Public Service Commission holds the tests for employment of geologists in Central Government Agencies. They can get good jobs in Geology in the Central Ground Water Board and the Geological Survey of India, Coal India, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, Mineral Exploration Authority, Hindustan Zinc and many other organization offer excellent job opportunities for the geologists. The Defense and Para-military forces also utilize the services of geologists.



A geophysicist must have a strong science background, a curious mind, and a fascination for natural phenomena. They must have an analytical mind and good communication skills, both verbal and written as many geoscientists work in teams. Candidates must also have ability to solve problems and enjoy technical work. Geophysicists must be detail-oriented, organized, and methodical in their approach to researching and evaluating samples and other items in their field of study. As most of their work involve field work, they must be physically fit and have stamina. Aspirants with specialisation in geophysics have job opportunities both in India and abroad. Most of the geophysicists are employed by industries in the mining, oil, and natural gas sector.

These geophysicists locate areas where there is high probability of finding deposits of minerals. There are another category of geophysicists who evaluate earth properties for environmental hazards and evaluate areas for dams or construction sites. They are employed by Marine survey companies and environmental consulting companies. In the government sector, Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) mainly employs Geophysicists. With Ph.D in geophysics one can take teaching positions in universities/institutes. Geophysicists can further advance to management and administrative positions. Most geophysicists spend at least part of their working career doing fieldwork, sometimes in remote areas in difficult conditions. Frequent travel, hard physical labor, long hours and limited companionship are all part of their fieldwork. They may have to stay away from home for many days, which may be depressing to a few. Hours of work varies with the type of work performed. If one holds administrative positions they can work for regular hours.

Geophysics Exploration Geophysics Seismology Geodesy Atmospheric physics Geomagnetism Marine Geophysics Environmental Geophysics Paleomagnetism Meteorology Oceanography

Exploration Geophysics: it is the applied branch of geophysics which uses surface methods to measure the physical properties of the subsurface Earth, in order to detect or infer the presence and position of ore, minerals, hydrocarbons, geothermal reservoirs, groundwater reservoirs, and other geological structures. Exploration geophysics is a highly recognized field in terms and usage of mineral prospecting, mapping and acquiring a comprehensive understanding of the geoscience of specific terrain. Exploration geophysicists are the ones who work with geologists, geotechnical engineers, petroleum engineers, mining engineers and other professionals, and may be responsible for the supervision of a team of other professionals, technologists and support staff. They may have to spend a considerable amount of time in the field, sometimes in remote locations.

Seismology: it is the scientific study of earthquakes and the propagation of elastic waves through the Earth or through other planet-like bodies. The field also includes studies of earthquake effects, such as tsunamis as well as diverse seismic sources such as volcanic, tectonic, oceanic, atmospheric, and artificial processes (such as explosions).

Geodesy: it is also named as geodetics. It is a branch of earth science that deals with the study of earth as a whole planet. Geodesists study the size, shape, and gravitational field of the Earth and other planets. They also study phenomena such as crustal motion, tides and polar motion.

Atmospheric physics: it is the application of physics to the study of the atmosphere. In other words, it is the study of the atmosphere in terms of its physical properties and dynamics. Geophysicists are the ones who investigate the earth's magnetic and electric fields, and compare its outer atmosphere with those of other planets.

Geomagnetism: it is the study of the Earth�s magnetic field, including its origin, telluric currents driven by the magnetic field and the interaction of the magnetic field with the solar wind. Geomagnetists work to discover the origins of the planet through the study of magnetic fields.

Marine Geophysics: it is a scientific discipline that is concerned with the application of geophysical methods to problems of marine geology. Marine geophysics is associated with the concepts and problems of seafloor spreading, continental drift, and plate tectonics.

Environmental Geophysics: A branch of earth science where Geophysical techniques may be used to monitor environmental impact of, for example, water contaminants by creating maps of the subsurface and investigating groundwater movement.

Paleomagnetism: it is the study of the record of the Earth's magnetic field preserved in various magnetic minerals through time.

Meteorology: It is the study of earth's atmosphere as well as the atmospheric conditions. Meteorology also deals with weather forecasting by applying physical and mathematical principles to atmospheric conditions. Meteorologists can find opportunities in meteorological departments, military, TV/ radio stations, education institutes, and consulting meteorology businesses.

Oceanography: It is the scientific study of the oceans which cover about 70 percent of the earth's surface. It includes ocean's physical properties, oceanic mapping and exploration.



Salary of geophysicists varies depending on education, experience, position, employer and geographical location. In mining and oil exploration sector the salary is lucrative. A fresher can expect to start with anything between Rs.15000/- to 25000/- per month which can shoot up with experience and talent. One can go ahead and reach administrative level after gaining experience and career advancement. The salary ranges from Rs.1 lakh to Rs.2 lakh per month in administrative jobs depending upon the sector one has joined.