Time Schedule:
Robert S Crosson
ESS 412
Seattle Campus
Introduction to theoretical and observational seismology. Elastic plane wave propagation through stratified media. Surface waves, eigenvibrations, ray theory. Structure of the Earth's mantle and core. Seismicity distributions, earthquake focal mechanisms and relationship to tectonics. Prerequisite: either ESS 411; recommended: concurrent registration in ESS 466.
Class description
Students can expect to learn about the basic theory and methods used by seismology to study the interior of the earth, and the processes giving rise to earthquakes. Emphasis is placed on physical insight and critical thinking required to interpret seismological observations in terms of the large scale structure of the earth's interior and earthquake sources.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Class meeting time will be used for lectures, class discussion, and bi-weekly quizzes. Extra instructional time will be available outside of class for assistance with problem sets.
Recommended preparation
Basic background in physics, mathematics, and earth science is recommended preparation. We will emphasize the application of the scientific reasoning in approaching seismological problems.
Class assignments and grading
Quizzes, problem sets, and class questions will be used. The computational framework program: Mathematica is used for some of the problem assignments.
Grading is based on quizzes, problem sets and class discussion participation.
