At a point on the reference ellipsoid the disturbing potential is

PHYSICS · Multi-part · Fermi University Physics · Earth, Climate & Energy Physics · The solid Earth: structure, fields and thermal history · The solid Earth: structure, fields and thermal history

The Solid Earth, Ch The shape and gravity of the Earth: potential, geoid, isostasy and flexure

Problem

At a point on the reference ellipsoid the disturbing potential is T=+600 J kg−1T = +600\,\mathrm{J\,kg^{-1}}, associated with a regional mass deficiency at depth. Take local gravity g=9.8 m s−2g = 9.8\,\mathrm{m\,s^{-2}}. ((a)) Use Bruns's formula to find the geoid height NN at this point. ((b)) State whether the sign of NN is consistent with a mass deficit, and why.

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