Advances in the Application of Multi-Dimensional Geophysical Surveys in Earth and Environmental Sciences

Geophysical methods provide information on the physical properties of the subsurface, the spatial distribution of these properties, and by inference, the structure of the subsurface. For this reason, in recent years the application of multi-dimensional geophysical techniques has become increasingly important for various geomorphologic and hydrological problems. This is especially because landforms and soil systems are inherently 3D structures, often exhibiting small-scale spatial heterogeneity of subsurface conditions, and flow and transport processes in these systems tend to be complex both in space and time. Modern geophysical methods have the potential to provide spatial or even volumetric information on the subsurface internal structure and property variations of landforms, soils and ecosystems. This is in contrast to mapping methods, such as remote sensing or aerial photography that are limited to providing surface information, and to intrusive methods (e.g. boreholes) that provide subsurface data only at point locations.

While 2D geophysical surveys can be regarded as state-of-the-art for imaging and monitoring of subsurface properties, 3D and 4D applications are - depending on the scientific discipline - still in their infancy, but are an emerging approach with significant future potential. Electrical methods play an especially prominent role here, owing to the frequent occurrence of large contrasts between the electrical properties of the different subsurface layers, and their sensitivity to spatio-temporal dynamics in the subsurface. But throughout the range of different methods applied in near-surface geophysics, multi-dimensional approaches enable detailed imaging of complex subsurface structures and dynamics.

This Research Topic aims to provide a forum for senior and early career researchers to share the latest findings, current and future potential of multidimensional geophysical surveys, both mapping and monitoring approaches. High-quality Original Research Articles, Case Studies and Review Articles in this field are welcome for submission to this research topic. Contributions that develop a deeper understanding of spatially heterogeneous and/or time-dependent subsurface processes are especially encouraged, as well as new developments that aim to fully exploit the potential of all multi-dimensional geophysical imaging approaches.