Numerical Methods in Geophysics
Overall Course Objectives
The course aims to provide basic mathematical tools for solving numerical problems in space and geophysics. In particular, the course will focus on using python to solve general mathematical problems.
See course description in Danish
Learning Objectives
- explain the concepts tension, deformation, external forces, constitutive relationships
- explain fundamental concepts in connection with interpolation, projection, including kriging, simulation, semi-variogram, correlation, area/distance/angle conservation
- solve simple linear and non-linear inverse problems in 1D and 2D
- solve problems regarding static pressure and stress conditions, flow phenomena in the ocean and in the earth
- solve problems regarding plastic flow in ice caps and flow in porous media
- solve problems concerning transformations between geodetic coordinate systems (ITRF, EUREF)
- analyze time series and calculate the corresponding uncertainty
- programming in Python and compile complex code to solve numerical integration in connection with geophysical problems
- use Python to construct animations/videos in connection with the dissemination of geophysical problems.
- Introduction to GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite system) and analysis of GNSS time series
Course Content
Introduction to Cartesian coordinate systems, stress, strain, volume forces, deformation, and rotation. Advanced programming in Python. Introduction to numerical methods for projection and transformations with distance, area and/or angle conservation. Introduction to linear and non-linear inverse problems in 1D and 2D. Analysis of time series and uncertainty and interpolation in 1D g 2D using kriging. Examples of equations of motion and conservation of mass/flux. Examples of applications: Hydrostatic pressure, elasticity, viscous flow (earth mantle), ice flow, turbulence, and laminar flow. Introduction to geodetic coordination systems and transformation between them by Helmert transformation, including ITRF, EUREF. Introduction to Euler rotation, plate motion, and post-glacial rebound.
Teaching Method
Lectures and exercises.



