Experiments and Earth Dynamics

The EU is introducing the concept and practice of experimental studies in Earth sciences, ranging from instrumental field measurements to quantitative analysis, modeling, and interpretation of the acquired data. In practice, the course centers on a physical measurement method—gravimetry—applied to Earth dynamics. Some of the field experiments focus on the global structure of the Earth (measurement of g and its vertical gradient to determine mass) and its dynamics (elastic deformation caused by tidal phenomena). Another part is dedicated to local subsurface imaging related to water resources (imaging and mass balance related to subsurface water storage). A significant portion of the course is devoted to the analysis and modeling of measurements.

Hourly volumes:

• CM: 12:00 p.m.
• TD: 12:00 p.m.
• Practical training: 6 hours
• Land: 6 h

An introduction to and simple application of quantitative and explicit approaches in Earth and environmental sciences:

• Field Measurements
• Numerical Data Analysis
• Physical Principles Related to Earth Dynamics
• Introduction to Equations and Numerical Modeling

Recommended prerequisites: 

High school-level math and physics

Comprehensive ongoing assessment (tutorial reports, written exams)

Brief description of the concepts covered in fourth grade:

• The Experimental Approach (1.5 hours)
• Introduction to Data Analysis: Accuracy, Uncertainty, and Resolution (1.5 hours)
• Physical Principles and Measurements in Gravimetry (3 hours)
• Physical principles related to Earth dynamics (physical characteristics of the Earth, tidal phenomena and associated deformations, hydrology, etc.) (3 hours) Physical principles related to water storage and water resource balance in terrestrial reservoirs (3 hours)

Summary description of the tutorial sessions and the number of hours associated with each session

• Mathematical Relationships Between the Gradient of g and the Mass of the Earth (1.5 hours)
• Calculating the gravimetric effect of a water column (1.5 hours)
• Data Analysis – Solid Earth Experiment (4.5 hours)
• Data Analysis - Water Experiment (4.5 hours)

Brief descriptions of the lab sessions and the number of hours associated with each session

• Preparation for the Solid Earth Experiment (procedure, measuring equipment, model, etc.) (3 hours)
• Preparation for the Water Experiment (procedure, measuring equipment, model, etc.) (3 hours)

Description of the topics/hands-on activities covered during your field trip(s) and details on the destinations/sites

• Global Dynamics (Solid Earth) = measurements of g and the vertical gradient of g related to the Earth’s structure (measurement of dg/dz => Earth’s mass) and its dynamics (solid tides, elastic deformation, etc.) at the FdS experimental site (under construction). (3 hours)
• Subsurface imaging related to water resources = measurement of g and its temporal variations in relation to the hydrological balance at the FdS experimental site (currently under construction). (3 hours)