Geophysics is the discipline of the geological sciences which, through the application of physics, allows inferences to be made about the structure of the earth. This is possible by indirectly measuring the physical properties of crustal rock units such as density, magnetic susceptibility, electrical conductivity and resistivity, the ability to conduct heat and shock waves, radioactive emissions etc.

The Geophysics Unit provides geologists with a third dimension, namely looking into the earth. Most importantly, geophysics is environmentally friendly, non-invasive, and much less expensive than drilling.

The Geophysics Unit has the task of mapping South Africa geophysically in an ever-increasing detail for the benefit of the nation.