Mineral Exploration Geophysics - 2021 entry

This module principally focuses on the application of airborne and ground geophysical survey techniques in regional and targeted mineral exploration programmes. Students will learn about commonly used geophysical surveys, such as magnetic, radiometric, electromagnetic, electric and seismic methods, along with relevant acquisition, processing and interpretation aspects. A focus will also be on the practical application of geophysical techniques in local Cornish mining and remediation aspects, and therefore support and maintain an interdisciplinary approach to geophysical surveying.  

The module aims to provide an understanding of the characteristics of a suite of commonly used geophysical techniques in mineral exploration, so that students can understand their application and identify appropriate technique(s) for a variety of mineral exploration and site investigation scenarios, at regional and local scale, which is a critical skill every exploration geoscientist should possess.  In addition to developing an understanding of the techniques themselves, students will also develop an understanding of appropriate techniques for data acquisition, processing and interpretation in the context of exploration targeting.  It is intended that this module will focus on the use of modern equipment and techniques along with the application in real life exploration scenarios, such as the Finland Exploration Challenge (CSMM193) and other datasets provided during the course of this module. 

Theoretical lectures will be supplemented by practical IT classes (using GIS and Surfer software packages) and fieldwork during which students will undertake surveys to research a site, and subsequently process their own data in order to derive an interpretation.
 

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge

1. Understand and describe the use of airborne and ground geophysical survey techniques in a mineral exploration setting

2. Understand and explain a range of geophysical techniques and develop an ability to select an appropriate technique or techniques for a specific purpose at a specific site.

3. Understand and explain the most common geophysical acquisition, processing and interpretation workflows used in mineral exploration and exploration targeting.

4. Plan and execute a geophysical survey.

5. Acquire, process and interpret geophysical data with the aim of informing about geological structures, mineral exploration targets and other engineering purposes.

6. Use an advanced knowledge of geology to assist in the interpretation of survey data.

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge

7. Understand the physical limitations and realistic capabilities of commonly used geophysical techniques.

8. Process data appropriately in order to facilitate interpretation of the data.

9. Identify and effectively deal with the practical constraints encountered during geophysical surveys.

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge

10. Construct and defend an enquiring approach.

11. Communicate effectively verbally and in writing

12. Compose a technically sound report using available literature, data and interpretations

Given that this is a PGT module it may not be possible to form a view on the need for reassessment until after the exam board at the end of the programme.  However, if the likelihood for reassessment becomes clear at an earlier stage the reassessment may be undertaken within the year.

Basic reading including lecture slides, materials and practical exercises:

 ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Reading list for this module:

Reading list for this module: