earth-sciences

Geophysics & Earth Structure

Investigate Earth's interior through simulations of seismic wave propagation, magnetic field generation, gravity anomalies, mantle convection, and isostatic equilibrium.

geophysicsseismologygeomagnetismgravitymantle convectionisostasyearth structure

Geophysics applies the principles of physics to study the Earth's interior structure, composition, and dynamic processes. From seismic waves that reveal the layered architecture beneath our feet to the geodynamo that generates our protective magnetic field, geophysical methods provide the primary window into regions we cannot directly observe.

These simulations model five fundamental geophysical phenomena: seismic wave propagation through layered media, Earth's magnetic field generation and structure, gravity anomalies caused by subsurface density contrasts, thermally driven mantle convection, and isostatic adjustment of the lithosphere. Each uses real-world parameters and governing equations from solid-earth geophysics.

5 interactive simulations

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Gravity Anomaly Modeling

Model Bouguer and free-air gravity anomalies over subsurface density contrasts, visualizing how buried structures like ore bodies, basins, and plutons create measurable gravitational signatures.

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Isostatic Equilibrium

Explore Airy and Pratt isostasy models showing how continental and oceanic crust float on the denser mantle, with adjustable crustal thickness, density, and surface topography.

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Earth's Magnetic Field & Geodynamo

Visualize Earth's dipolar magnetic field, explore how core convection speed, core radius, and conductivity affect field strength, and observe field line geometry from pole to equator.

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Mantle Convection Simulation

Simulate thermally driven convection in Earth's mantle, exploring how Rayleigh number, viscosity, and internal heating control convection cell geometry, surface heat flow, and plate velocities.

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Seismic Wave Propagation

Visualize P-wave and S-wave propagation through Earth's layered interior, showing refraction, reflection, and shadow zones created by the liquid outer core.