Although we don't believe in timing the market or panicking over market movements, we do like to keep an eye on big changes -- just in case they're material to our investing thesis.

What: Ion Geophysical (NYSE: IO) shares popped 10% in intraday trading today. Investors bet it will  benefit from the tragic earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

So what: Ion Geophysical provides seismic technology to the global energy industry. Its products and services are used for oil and gas exploration and production.

Now what: Gripping news of dangerously overheated nuclear reactors could cool recent enthusiasm about oil and gas energy alternatives such as nuclear power. Therefore, the tragedy in Japan is turning investor sentiment about oil exploration and production more positive. If the outlook for oil and gas improves, the prospects for Ion should also.

Interested in more info on Ion? Add it to your watchlist by clicking here.