Geophysicists and geologists are both considered geoscientists. Whereas geology studies the composition, processes, and history of Earth, geophysics involves the application of physical theories and measurements to discover and study the structure, composition, and dynamic changes of Earth, its atmosphere, hydrosphere (the water of Earth's surface), and magnetosphere (that area of space, around Earth, that is controlled by Earth's magnetic field).
The distinguishing characteristic of geophysics is its use of instruments to make direct or indirect measurements of the parts of Earth being studied, in contrast to the more direct observations that are typical of geology. Whereas geologists typically analyze fairly static systems, Geophysicists usually examine systems in flux.
Geophysicists generally assess, examine, and explore the physical properties of Earth and apply physical measurements to investigate specific geologic problems. Among several subdisciplines, engineering geophysicists apply geologic and physical principals to the field of civil and environmental engineering to advise on major construction projects (such as hydroelectric and nuclear power plants) and assist in environmental remediation hazard-reduction of the disposal of their waste products (including nuclear waste material).
Geophysicists analyze/interpret geological, geochemical, and geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, boreholes, and aerial photographs. They also plan and conduct field studies to collect data for advising on safety requirements for construction (or deconstruction) of nuclear power plants or disposition of nuclear wastes from those facilities.
Most Geophysicists advising the nuclear power industry are part of outside consulting firms or are independent consultants. Most use computer-generated models of what they are studying. That way, they can take the same situation and vary the factors one at a time. They then can apply those findings to similar leakage flow of pollutants (such as nuclear waste products) to determine the optimal underground storage for such waste material.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor median annual earnings of geoscientists in general were US Dollars 68,730 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between US Dollars 49,260 and US Dollars 98,380. The lowest 10 percent had incomes of less than US Dollars 37,700, whereas the highest 10 percent earned more than US Dollars 130,750. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), beginning salary offers in July 2005 for graduates with bachelor's degrees in geology and related sciences average US Dollars 39,365 per year.
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