Mechanics in the Earth and Environmental Sciences

Helps to develop a working knowledge of mechanics and its application to the earth and environmental sciences.

Gerard V. Middleton (Author), Peter R. Wilcock (Author)

9780521446693, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 26 August 1994

476 pages, 154 b/w illus. 5 tables
23.5 x 19.1 x 2.4 cm, 0.81 kg

'This is a very good book, and goes a long way in presenting a much-needed dose of mechanics at a level appropriate for many students in the earth sciences. This book should be in any library, and the paperback version is a good buy for personal use.' James P. Evans, Journal of Structural Geology

The study of the Earth and the environment requires an understanding of the physical processes within and at the surface of the Earth. This book allows the student to develop a broad working knowledge of mechanics and its application to the earth and environmental sciences - providing the background necessary to study the professional literature. The mathematical background required is a first-year course in calculus - more advanced topics are introduced in the context of their applications. The book aims to develop an understanding of the physics for each topic in mechanics, to provide insight into a wide range of natural phenomena. The breadth of application, and the many worked examples and problems will lead both students and professionals to a better understanding of the physical systems at work in the Earth's crust and at its surface.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Review of elementary mechanics
3. Dimensional analysis and theory of models
4. Stress
5. Pressure, buoyancy and consolidation
6. Flow through porous media
7. Strain
8. Elasticity
9. Viscous fluids
10. Flow of natural materials
11. Turbulence
12. Thermal convection
Appendices
References.

Subject Areas: Geophysics [PHVG]