Reversals of the Earth's Magnetic Field

by J. A. Jacobs

Overview

This book deals with the particular case of reversals of the Earth's magnetic field. These have played a major role in the development of plate tectonics and in establishing a geological time scale. The magnetism of rocks is discussed in some detail with a warning of possible misinterpretations of the record. The latest observational results and theories are reviewed with special attention to the structure and geometry of the transition field. Changing conditions at the core-mantle boundary, their effect on reversals, the generation of plumes and the possible correlation of reversals with tectonic changes, ice ages or mass extinctions are thoroughly discussed, including suggested periodicities in the reversal record and in other geophysical data.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521675567
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/14/2005
Edition description:	Revised Edition
Pages:	360
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.75(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. The Earth's magnetic field; 2. The magnetisation of rocks; 3. The morphology of geomagnetic reversals; 4. Geomagnetic excursions; 5. Models for reversals; 6. Transition fields; 7. Magnetostratigraphy; 8. The Earth's magnetic field and other geophysical phenomena; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"Professor Jacobs has not only succeeded in thoroughly covering the basics of reversal studies, but he has also provided an up-to-date review of the ongoing controversies. The book is therefore of interest both to specialists, for whom it is an important reference source, and to the more general reader, for whom it provides an excellent review of the subject...will be of great value both to the general reader and the specialist...an excellent basic introduction, coupled with a very evenhanded and informative review of the most recent controversies." Mike Fuller, American Scientist

"...The ‘heart' of the book covers excursions of the magnetic field, models and possible reversal mechanisms, and transition fields." Geotimes

"The author writes lucidly and well, and the book offers a comprehensive overview of all things related to reversals....remarkable in its clarity....This intrinsically difficult material is made very accessible without undue mathematical treatment....[A]fter reading the book one comes away with an excellent overview of a field of research that will remain active for decades to come. The book definitely belongs on the bookshelves of all researchers and graduate students working with aspects of reversals and should be purchased by all research libraries." R. Van der Voo, Geological Magazine

"...an interesting book that provides extra insight and a different perspective on paleomagnetic reversals....will become essential reading for magnetostratigraphers everywhere." A. Ewan Campbell, The Leading Edge

From the Publisher