What is Geophysics?

Geophysics entails the study and exploration of the Earth's interior through physical measurements collected at the earth's surface, from land surveying, in boreholes, from aircraft, and from satellites. Using a combination of mathematics, physics, geology, chemistry, hydrology, and computer science, a geophysicist analyzes these measurements to infer properties and processes within the Earth's complex interior.

Because the Earth supplies all of our material needs and is the repository of our waste products, the breadth and importance of this field of science are evident. Geophysicists assess the material properties near the Earth's surface when sites are chosen for large engineering and waste-management operations. Geophysical technology is used in environmental applications such as tracking the flow of contaminants and searching for groundwater.