Mechanics in the Earth and Environmental Sciences / Edition 1

by Gerard V. Middleton, Peter R. Wilcock

Overview

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 will allow the student to develop a broad working knowledge of mechanics and its application to the earth and environmental sciences. The mathematics are introduced at a level that assumes only an understanding of first-year calculus. The concepts are then developed to allow an understanding of the basic physics for a wide range of natural processes. These are illustrated by examples from many real situations, such as the application of the theory of flow through porous media to the study of groundwater, the viscosity of fluids to the flow of lava, and the theory of stress to the study of faults. The breadth of topics will allow students and professionals to gain an insight into the workings of many aspects of the Earth's systems.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521446693
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	08/26/1994
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	476
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 9.40(h) x 1.10(d)

Table of Contents

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.

Editorial Reviews

"This unique book should bridge a gap common to courses in many earth and environmental science curricula, i.e., the inadequate application of mathematics and physics. Middleton and Wilcock provide a more quantitative modeling approach to understanding the physical processes within and at the surface of the earth....well written and illustrations are clear and adequate. An excellent resource." M.E. McCallum, Choice

"...aims to give students a broad knowledge of mechanics and its application to the earth and environmental sciences...the range of applications described and exemplified in this book shows both students and professionals the physical systems at work in Earth's crust and at its surface." Geotimes

"...mechanics workers will find Mechanisms in the Earth and Environmental Sciences worthwhile reading. Middleton and Wilcock have provided a readable and fascinating account of aplied mechanics as practiced by the earth and environmental scientists." S.K. Garg, Applied Mechanics Review

"As is true for all the other aspects of this book, it is clear that a lot of work has gone into assembling the bibliography and making it useful for students....[T]he coverage is well balanced between phenomenological and theoretical sources....[A] superb example of good textbook writing. It is well designed pedagogically and a pleasure to read." John A. Scales, American Scientist

From the Publisher