Sunday, July 20, 2014

Useful Information Pertaining To Seismology

By Carey Bourdier


The science of the study of earthquakes is called seismology and as well all know with earthquakes there is such a huge potential to have catastrophic effects on people because it involves ground movement and thus a very important branch of science. For persons having interests in this career, the following are some information that can be useful.

Studying earthquakes is not only what the seismologist does. The devastating tsunamis that many people have experienced in the recent years are also effects of earthquakes and this is also what this kind of scientist studies. Other sources of seismic activities like volcanic activities and also other seismic sources like man made explosions and also fracking or hydraulic fracturing are also what a seismologist studies.

There are many tools you will need to learn in order to become a seismologist. Obviously, a seismometer is an important tool and this tool also is sometimes known as a seismograph. This measures ground motion, such as the seismic waves that are generated when an earthquake occurs.

A theodolite will also be used, an instrument that helps scientists mark changes over time by measuring creep movements, and the seismologist will learn to use this. Tilt meters, also often called inclinometers, instruments used to measure ground changes are also used by seismologists. Seismic activities near volcanoes are often where these tilt meters are used. Seismologists use different instruments and these are just a few of these tools and equipment used.

You might be surprised to find that most seismologists have a master's degree or doctoral degree in geophysics. During your studies, you will learn about the gravitational forces of the earth as well as the electrical and magnetic forces of the earth. You also will study the internal composition of our planet and atmosphere. Once you earn a degree, you might work at a university conducting research or perhaps for the government at the United States Geological Survey. There are many jobs for seismologists in the private sector as well, including the mining industry, construction industry and petroleum industry.

In the U.S., there are universities offering this degree in geophysics and while you will find some universities only offering undergraduate degrees, most universities offer geophysics graduate degrees. This can mean that for undergraduate studies you will earn a bachelor's degree in earth science or other earth science disciplines. An example is California Institute of Technology and they offer undergraduate degrees as well as graduate degrees in geophysics. Other universities are Massachusetts Institute of Technology and University of California at Berkeley, and these are two famous universities where you can get towards a career in seismology.




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