F1E5007 Physical Geodesy 7.5 credits

• Potential theory. Geodetic boundary value problems
• Legendre functions and spherical harmonics
• Theory of Stokes, Molodenskii and Bjerhammar
• Least squares collocation
• Gravity reduction, isostacy and Moho surface
• Numerical computation of the geoid
• Dedicated satellite gravity missions
• Least squares modification of Stokes' formula by combining with global gravitational models

After completing this course, students should

• have deep understanding of the mathematical and physical foundation for representation and determination of the earth's gravity field
• have acquired practical skills in performing relevant numerical investigations
• be familiar with different geoid determination methods, in particular methods developed at KTH.
• be able to relate the earth's gravity field to studies of the earth system including global climate change

Basic knowledge in physical geodesy at master level.

Heiskanen and Moritz (1967). Physical geodesy

Moritz (1980). Advanced physical geodesy.

Sjöberg (2011). The KTH approach to modelling the geoid.

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Written examination (TEN1), 7,5 credits.

Huaan Fan

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.