Course summary

Do you want to help solve some of the biggest global challenges facing our planet? Then geophysics may be for you. From record-breaking heatwaves and wildfires to disastrous floods, climate change is already impacting our planet. We have produced world-leading research proving that human-caused climate change has changed both the frequency and severity of extreme weather events. Join us as we explore the amazing planet Earth, from its hot core to its crust, oceans, atmosphere, and everything in between. What is geophysics? Geophysics is about understanding the complex interactions between Earth's systems. We explore everything from liquid metal in the Earth's core to moving continents on the Earth surface. We study the composition of the deep Earth and the rapidly changing composition of the Earth's atmosphere. Science of natural disasters We can use geophysics to monitor the processes that result in catastrophic events. For example, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Big science and big data We use a process called remote sensing to gather vast amounts of data. We often obtain this data through satellites, aircraft and drones. We can collect data from the edges of space to the very centre of the Earth to understand, model and predict how the Earth behaves. Computer science Using coding and building computer models helps us understand complex data and predict how the Earth will behave in the future. Environmental science We are seeking ways to provide renewable sources of energy. Plus, finding the materials and technologies that enable them. Geophysics is also about understanding the physics of environmental change. We can look for ways to mitigate the harmful impact of human activity and repair damages of the past. Climate science Understanding how the atmosphere and oceans interact also allows us to predict the impact of human activities on the rapidly changing climate. We can benchmark our progress towards a net-zero future. Multiscale science Our understanding can range from how atoms behave under immense pressures and temperatures deep within the Earth, to examining interactions between planetary bodies in our solar system and beyond. Bringing it all together It is the interdisciplinarity and interconnected nature of geophysics that defines much of what we do. It is also why geophysics plays such an essential role in creating a more sustainable and equitable future for us all. What is meteorology? Meteorology uses similar methods and techniques as geophysics to study:

• atmospheric dynamics

• climate change

• meteorological phenomena, such as rain, snow, storms and hurricanes

• gravity

• heat transfer

• ocean currents

• volcanic eruptions