Environmental Geophysics in Exploration Geology

On the 30th November a group of students and staff went to the disused Sheepcote Valley landfill site to practise the use of field geophysics instruments as part of the third year Exploration Geology module. The exercise demonstrated how geophysical techniques can be used in environmental investigations. Students got experience in working with EM31 (electro-magnetic measurement of ground conductivity), Proton Precession Magnetometry (magnetic field strength), magnetic gradiometry (magnetic field gradient) and gamma ray spectroscopy (natural radiation production). Experience with instrumental field techniques is part of the Geological Society of London accredited program for BSc Geology and BSc Physical Geography and Geology. envgeophys.

Using a field gamma ray spectrometer to map trace levelsof radio-isotopes.

Measuring ground electrical conductivity with EM31.

Students measuring the magnetic field gradient at Sheepcote valley near Brighton.

Measuring the total magnetic field strength