geopotential surface

geophysics

Also known as: equigeopotential surface, level surface

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June 29, 2026

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A geopotential surface is a surface where the gravitational potential is constant. In geophysics, the geoid is the specific equipotential surface that best approximates mean sea level. This surface is crucial because the local direction of gravity is perpendicular to it.1

The geoid's shape is influenced by variations in Earth's internal density, causing it to undulate and deviate from a simple mathematical form like an ellipsoid. Measuring gravity and understanding potential theory are essential for both geodesy (the study of Earth's shape) and geophysics (the study of Earth's internal structure). Gravimetric surveys use these measurements to interpret geological structures and aid in the search for minerals.123

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ocean current
Pressure gradients
…along a horizontal plane or geopotential surface, a surface perpendicular to the direction of the gravity acceleration. Horizontal gradients of pressure, though much smaller than vertical changes in pressure, give rise to ocean currents.
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…along a horizontal plane or geopotential surface, a surface perpendicular to the direction of the gravity acceleration. Horizontal gradients of pressure, though much smaller than vertical changes in pressure, give rise to ocean currents.
Read More