Interpretation project involving seismic modeling. Field and laboratory exercises. GEOL 101, MATH 333. Nonlinear optimization including grid search, Monte Carlo method, iterative methods. Examples selected from geophysical applications.
Computer laboratory exercises.
Application of physics and mathematics to investigation of tectonic processes. Basic continuum mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics. Elastic flexure of the lithosphere, cooling of oceanic lithosphere, thermal and subsidence history of sedimentary basins, frictional heating on faults, thermal structure of subducted lithosphere, isostatic compensation, postglacial rebound, creep in rocks, mantle convection. Project and report required. Derivation of wave equations and solutions in idealized media including layered media.