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Seismology of the spherical earth
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:29:07
Abstract
Brief review of continuum mechanics and earthquake modeling. Approaches to solving the momentum equation in realistic Earth models, or ways to calculate a theoretical seismogram: homogeneous wave equation; P and S waves; eikonal equation and ray tracing; surface-wave solutions; normal-mode solutions. The problem of identifying a spherically symmetric model for the Earth.
Objective
After taking this course, students will have the background knowledge necessary to start an original research project in global theoretical seismology.
Resources
Literature
Aki, K. and P. G. Richards, Quantitative Seismology, second edition, University Science Books, Sausalito, 2002. Dahlen, F. A. and J. Tromp, Theoretical Global Seismology, Princeton University Press, Princeton, 1998. Lay, T. and T. C. Wallace, Modern Global Seismology, Academic Press, San Diego, 1995. Shearer, P., Introduction to Seismology, Cambridge University Press, 1999. Udias, A., Principles of Seismology, Cambridge University Press, 1999.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Seismology of the spherical earth |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Major in Geophysics (Advisor of the major geophysics is Prof. E. Kissling.)
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Major in Geophysics: Electives (From the elective courses offered In spring and autumn semester of the third study year, 12 credits have to be acquired. In the autumn semester, the following block-courses of the MSc-Major "Geophysics" can be chosen:)
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