Geophysics and Geodynamics
Geophysics is a branch of science that deals with the physical movements and forces of the Earth such as atmosphere, including oceanography, seismology, volcanology, and geomagnetism. Geodynamics is a subfield of geophysics dealing with dynamics of the Earth. It applies physics, chemistry and mathematics to the understanding of how mantle convection leads to plate tectonics and geologic phenomena such as seafloor spreading, mountain building, volcanoes, earthquakes, faulting and so on. It also attempts to probe the internal activity by measuring magnetic fields, gravity, and seismic waves, as well as the mineralogy of rocks and their isotopic composition. Methods of geodynamics are also applied to exploration of other planets.
- Lithospheric-scale shear localization
- Formation of fold-and-thrust belts and salt tectonics
- Magnetotellurics, seismoelectromagnetics
- Gravimetry and DC geoelectrical tomography
- Comparison of seismologic and geodynamic mantle models
- Lithosphere dynamics and mantle flow
- Paleomagnetism and its applications to plate tectonics