A professional who studies physical aspects of earth, including its atmosphere and hydrosphere. Responsibilities include:

• Investigates and measures seismic, gravitational, electrical, thermal, and magnetic forces affecting earth, utilizing principles of physics, mathematics, and chemistry.
• Analyzes data obtained to compute shape of earth, estimate composition and structure of earth's interior, determine flow pattern of ocean tides and currents, study physical properties of atmosphere, and help locate petroleum and mineral deposits.
• Investigates origin and activity of glaciers, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
• Compiles data to prepare navigational charts and maps, predict atmospheric conditions, prepare environmental reports, and establish water supply and flood-control programs.
• May study specific aspect of geophysics and be designated Geomagnetician; Glaciologist; Oceanographer, Physical; Tectonophysicist; Volcanologist.