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103-0157-00L 4 Credits MSC D-BAUG

Physical Geodesy and Geodynamics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Markus Rothacher
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:08:27

Abstract

Newton's Laws and accelerated reference systems; gravitation and potential theory, gravity and normal gravity; linear model of the gravity field; gravity reductions, solution of the geodetic boundary value problem; geoid computation.

Objective

Obtain knowledge in Physical Geodesy as a fundamental topic forming the basis for Geomatics and Geodynamics. Acquire skills in calculus covered in Physical Geodesy.

Content

Newton's laws and accelerated reference systems - Newton's laws - Inertial systems - Accelerated systems and fictitious forces Gravitation and potential theory - Newton’s law of gravitation - Integral and differential formulas of potential theory Gravity Normal gravity Linear model of the gravity field - Disturbances of the gravity field - Anomalies of the gravity field Gravity reductions Solution of the geodetic boundary value problem - Stokes’ formula - Vening-Meinesz formula - Series representation of gravity field functionals Geoid computation - Application of the integration formula by Stokes - Geoid computations with spherical harmonics functions - Gravity anomalies and spherical harmonics functions - Geoid computation using the combination method - Signal characteristics of geoid and gravity anomalies

Resources

Lecture Notes

Script exists in English

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Physical Geodesy and Geodynamics
  • Wed 12:45-15:30 (HIL D 53)
  • 10.05 Date 07:45-10:30 (HIT F 31.2)
3 h weekly

Offered In