Introduction To Theoretical Geophysics

Introduction to Theoretical Geophysics

It has been my intention in this book to give a coordinated treatment of the whole of theoretical geophysics. The book assumes a mathematical back ground through calculus and differential equations. It also assumes a reason able background in physics and in elementary vector analysis. The level of the book is commensurate with that of a senior undergraduate or first year graduate course. Its aim is to provide the reader with a survey of the whole of theoretical geophysics. The emphasis has been on the basic and the elementary. The expert in any one of the several disciplines covered here will find much lacking from his particular area of investigation; no apology is made for that. In order to treat all aspects in a coordinated manner, the simplest type of mathematical nota tion for the various physical problems has been used, namely, that of scalars, three-dimensional vectors, and the vector operators, gradient, curl, divergence, etc. It is appreciated that this elementary notation often may not be the most conducive to the solution of some of the more complex geophysical problems. The derivations are, in almost every case, carried through in considerable detail. Sometimes the particulars of the algebra and calculus have been omitted and relegated to one of the problems following the section. The emphasis has been on the physics of the derivations and on explaining the various physical principles important in geophysics, such as continuity, mixing, diffusion, conduction, convection, precession, wobble, rays, waves, dispersion, and potential theory.

Introduction to Theoretical Geophysics

Fundamentals of Geophysics

This textbook presents a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of geophysics. It combines applied and theoretical aspects of the subject, in contrast to most other geophysics textbooks which tend to emphasise either one or the other. The author explains complex geophysical concepts using abundant diagrams, a simplified mathematical treatment, and easy-to-follow equations. After placing the Earth in the context of the solar system, it describes each major branch of geophysics: gravitation, seismology, dating, thermal and electrical properties, geomagnetism, palaeomagnetism and geodynamics. Each chapter begins with a summary of the basic physical principles, and a brief account of each topic's historical evolution. Pitched at a level between introductory and advanced texts, the book will satisfy the needs of intermediate-level earth science students from a variety of backgrounds, while at the same time preparing geophysics majors for continued study to a higher level. The book is destined to become a core textbook for geology and geophysics courses.