Quantitative Modeling of Earth Surface Processes

This advanced textbook describes quantitative techniques for modeling Earth surface processes in geomorphology.

Jon D. Pelletier (Author)

9780521855976, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 7 August 2008

304 pages, 184 b/w illus. 12 colour illus.
25.2 x 19.2 x 1.8 cm, 0.84 kg

'Jon Pelletier has authored a surprisingly detailed textbook which describes some of the most important, or, as he writes in the introduction, most effective and straightforward quantitative techniques for modeling Earth surface processes … the book provides its own refreshing trajectory … This particular path through the different realms of geomorphology provides the reader [with] a direct route through sophisticated ways [of] modeling Earth surface processes.' Zeitschrift für Geomorphologie

This textbook describes some of the most effective and straightforward quantitative techniques for modeling Earth surface processes. By emphasizing a core set of equations and solution techniques, the book presents state-of-the-art models currently employed in Earth surface process research, as well as a set of simple but practical research tools. Detailed case studies demonstrate application of the methods to a wide variety of processes including hillslope, fluvial, aeolian, glacial, tectonic, and climatic systems. Exercises at the end of each chapter begin with simple calculations and then progress to more sophisticated problems that require computer programming. All the necessary computer codes are available online at www.cambridge.org/9780521855976. Assuming some knowledge of calculus and basic programming experience, this quantitative textbook is designed for advanced geomorphology courses and as a reference book for professional researchers in Earth and planetary science looking for a quantitative approach to Earth surface processes.

1. Preface
2. Introduction
3. The diffusion equation
4. Flow routing
5. The advection/wave equation
6. Flexural isostasy
7. Non-Newtonian flow equations
8. Instabilities
9. Stochastic processes
Appendix 1. Codes for solving the diffusion equation
Appendix 2. Codes for flow routing
Appendix 3. Codes for solving the advection equation
Appendix 4. Codes for solving the flexure equation
Appendix 5. Codes for modeling non-Newtonian flows
Appendix 6. Codes for modeling instabilities
Appendix 7. Codes for modeling stochastic processes
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Geological surface processes [geomorphology RBGD], Soil science, sedimentology [RBGB], Earth sciences [RB]