1. n. []

A scientist trained in the study of the physics of the Earth, particularly its electrical, gravitational and magnetic fields and propagation of elastic (seismic) waves within it. In the petroleum industry, geophysicists perform a variety of functions, chiefly the processing and interpretation of seismic data and generation of subsurface maps on the basis of seismic data. Such interpretations enhance understanding of subsurface geology.

See: elastic wave,  seismic wave