Advanced Exploration Geophysics

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Explain aspects of how seismic reflection methods, potential field and electromagnetic methods are used for practical purposes
• Interpret and report on seismic reflection profiles;
• Understand the core theory and practice underlying electromagnetic exploration methods;
• Explain the main techniques used in multi-channel seismic reflection data processing;
• Analyse and interpret potential field and electromagnetic data to infer subsurface structure;
• Describe limits on the resolution of seismic, potential field and marine electromagnetic data and design a data acquisition and processing strategy for a given target;

The module covers, at advanced level, three topics that are central to applied geophysics in the marine environment. The first is reflection seismology; the second is potential field methods; and the third is marine electromagnetic surveying. The study of reflection seismology accounts for just less than half of the course. Basic seismic processing operations are introduced, including correlation, convolution, deconvolution, frequency filtering and migration. Strong emphasis is placed on the applications of spectral analysis using Fourier based methods. The module uses examples from hydrocarbon exploration and continental margin studies, including seismic stratigraphy, methods of reservoir identification and 3D surveying. Practical exercises include both seismic processing and interpretation.

In the second part of the module the application of potential field methods to geophysical exploration is discussed. Advanced methods for anomaly separation and filtering, based on spectral analysis and spatial derivatives, are introduced. Different approaches are reviewed and practical experience is gained through computer modelling and analysis exercises.

The third component provides an overview of controlled source electromagnetic methods, as applied in marine survey operations. Both the underlying theory and the fundamentals of data acquisition and processing are addressed. Computer-based practical exercises provide experience in modelling marine controlled source electromagnetic datasets, and examining the sensitivity of this type of data to resistivity anomalies in the sub-surface.

Formal Lectures: will deal with geophysical exploration with particular emphasis on potential field methods, controlled source electromagnetics and advanced reflection seismology. An outline of each lecture will be provided. Each lecture systematically covers the main concepts and topics by the use of PowerPoint presentations. Where relevant, lecturers' own research experience in the appropriate fields is brought into the lecturing sessions. References to relevant textbooks and journal articles are provided as background reading for each lecture.

Laboratory Classes: will further develop your processing, modelling and data interpretation skills.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.