Theory of elastic seismic waves - Einzelansicht

The course Theory of Seismic Waves provides a basic introduction to the theory of wave propagation needed to understand observations and to interpret seismological data. Emphasis is placed on the mode description of body and surface waves. Fundamentals of elasticity theory and elementary solutions of the wave equation are presented in detail. I start with a one-dimensional description of waves on a string to explain key features of free oscillation and wave modes on "membranes" (layers). Basic mathematical approaches and representation theorems are introduced. Later, reflection and refraction of seismic plane waves at plane boundary layers, guided waves and seismic surface waves are discussed. The theory of seismic sources will be covered in brief, but will be discussed in more detail in my course Rupture Processes in Seismology and Volcanology.

The theory of wave propagation is made understandable by calculating and discussing synthetic seismograms for a realistic Earth in practical courses. Students will learn how to use the latest seismogram calculation software and will be able to understand seismological analysis methods using examples they have generated themselves. The application of the analysis methods to observed data can be deepened in the following semester in the course Advanced Methods in Observational Seismology, which can contribute to finding a desired topic for a Master's thesis.

Potsdam, 15 October 2024, Torsten Dahm

Dahm, T. Seismology II: body and surface waves. Lecture notes, ca. pp. 230. (will be provided as pdf)
Müller, G. (2007): Theory of elastic waves, (Scientific Technical Report STR ; 07/03), 228 S. https://doi.org/10.2312/GFZ.b103-07037
Aki, K.; Richards, P. (2002). Quantitative Seismology. University Science Books
Lay, Th.; Wallace, T.C. (1995). Modern Global Seismology. Academic Press

- Bachelor in Geophysics / Physics / Geosciences

- Basics in physics, math and programming