Department of Geological Sciences
King Saud University
Academic Year: 2008-2009
Instructor:
Professor Elkhedr Hassan Ibrahim
Department of Geological Sciences,
Faculty of Sciences, King Saud University,
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Room 52 1B
Office Hours:
Wed., Sunday 10:00- 11:30 noon
Lectures &
Classroom:
Lectures — Sat., Tuesday. 1:00-1:50 pm in 60 1B
Laboratory — Mon. 4:00-6:00 afternoon in 62 1B
Course Nos.:
Credits:
Geophysics Fundamentals (371 Geo)
3 hours (2 + 1)
Course description:
This course Introduce the students to the Fundamentals of the methods of
geophysical prospecting, and how these methods explore the Earth's layers
based on their physical properties.
Prerequisites: Physical Geology (Geo 101)
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILO's):
On completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Know the physical properties of different rocks and minerals and how the
rock types differ based on their physical properties.
2. Understand how the different geophysical methods can image and explore
the Earth's layers based on their physical properties.
3. Get an overview of the field procedures employed to collect different types
of geophysical data.
4. Know how these methods are used for exploration the subsurface.
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Prepared by Professor Elkhedr Hassan
Covered Lecture Topics
1. Introduction
2. Seismic methods: Propagation of seismic waves
3. Seismic velocity and attenuation of seismic waves
4. Refraction versus reflection
5. Seismic reflection method: Fundamentals
6. Seismic refraction method: Fundamentals
7. Gravity method: Basic concepts, definitions and Field measurement
8. Gravity anomalies for various geological features
9. Magnetic method: Basic concepts and definitions
10. Magnetism of the earth, magnetization of rocks and Magnetic anomalies
11. Geoelectric method: Electric properties associated of rocks
12. Resistively method, SP and IP methods
13. Electromagnetic survey: Principles and techniques
14. Ground penetrating radar: Principles and techniques
Textbooks
1. Kearey, P., Brooks, M., and Hill, I. (2002). An Introduction to Geophysical
Exploration. Blackwell Science, Inc.
2. Sharma, P. V. (1997). Environmental and Engineering Geophysics.
Cambridge University Press. 475 pages.
Grading
Grades will be determined through the following evaluations:




In class short quizzes and mid-term Exam
Attendance, class participation
Major and final Exam
Lab. Exercises, class participation
and homework assignments
15%
5%
50%
30%
Important Note: If you miss a quiz (or in-class activity), you will not be able to
make it up because your regular attendance is expected.
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Prepared by Professor Elkhedr Hassan