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651-4105-00L 3 Credits MSC D-ERDW
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Palaeomagnetism

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Andrea Biedermann
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:40:43

Abstract

This course focuses on the Earth’s magnetic field, and minerals and rocks as recorders of the past geomagnetic field. We will cover field and laboratory methods, as well as analysis of paleomagnetic data. Applications of paleomagnetic data will be examined, such as magnetostratigraphy, magnetic anisotropy or how paleomagnetic data can be used in geodynamics or tectonic studies.

Objective

Gain an understanding of how paleomagnetism can be used in study of the Earth

Content

1. Earth's magnetic field 2. Magnetic minerals 3. Types of remanence 4. Paleomagnetic sampling and tests of stability 5. Analysis of remanent magnetization, and statistical tests 6. Laboratory measurements 7. Special topics (anisotropy, paleogeography, magnetostratigraphy, ...)

Resources

Literature

Paleomagnetism: Magnetic Domains to Geologic Terranes by R.F. Butler http://www.geo.arizona.edu/Paleomag/ Essentials of Paleomagnetism by L. Tauxe https://earthref.org/MagIC/books/Tauxe/Essentials/

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Palaeomagnetism
  • Thu 13:15-17:00 (NO F 39)
28 h semesterly

Offered In

    • Electives (Courses can be chosen from the complete offerings of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich (according to prior agreement with the MSc Committee).)