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Elsevier

Books in Earth surface processes

Covering erosion, sediment transport, landscape evolution, and hydrology, this collection provides in-depth insights into dynamic surface phenomena. It supports geoscientists, geomorphologists, and environmental engineers seeking to understand and manage Earth's surface changes. Featuring innovative research, field studies, and modelling approaches, these resources help address environmental challenges, natural hazards, and land use planning, fostering sustainable interactions with our planet’s surface environments.

  • Geomorphology and Volcanology of Costa Rica

    • 1st Edition
    • Jean Pierre Bergoeing
    • English
    Geomorphology and Volcanology of Costa Rica is the product of more than 30 years of research explaining the evolution of the quaternary relief of a geomorphologically diverse country. The book details the physical landscape of Costa Rica, with an emphasis on potential threats to the landscape, such as earthquakes, landslides, floods, and sea level rise. The book answers questions on the climate changes associated with the intense volcanism that affects this country. Geomorphologists, geologists, geographers, and students who specialize in the Earth Sciences will benefit from knowing the geomorphology of Costa Rica, not only as a case study, but also for the lessons it offers on climate change and worldwide geological history.

  • The Physics of Glaciers

    • 3rd Edition
    • W. S. B. Paterson
    • English
    This updated and expanded version of the second edition explains the physical principles underlying the behaviour of glaciers and ice sheets. The text has been revised in order to keep pace with the extensive developments which have occurred since 1981. A new chapter, of major interest, concentrates on the deformation of subglacial till. The book concludes with a chapter on information regarding past climate and atmospheric composition obtainable from ice cores.

  • Microwave Remote Sensing of Land Surfaces

    Techniques and Methods
    • 1st Edition
    • Nicolas Baghdadi + 1 more
    • English
    Microwave Remote Sensing of Land Surface: Techniques and Methods brings essential coverage of the space techniques of observation on continental surfaces. The authors explore major applications and provide detailed chapters on physical principles, physics of measurement, and data processing for each technique, bringing readers up-to-date descriptions of techniques used by leading scientists in the field of remote sensing and Earth observation.

  • Land Surface Remote Sensing in Continental Hydrology

    • 1st Edition
    • Nicolas Baghdadi + 1 more
    • English
    The continental hydrological cycle is one of the least understood components of the climate system. The understanding of the different processes involved is important in the fields of hydrology and meteorology.In this volume the main applications for continental hydrology are presented, including the characterization of the states of continental surfaces (water state, snow cover, etc.) using active and passive remote sensing, monitoring the Antarctic ice sheet and land water surface heights using radar altimetry, the characterization of redistributions of water masses using the GRACE mission, the potential of GNSS-R technology in hydrology, and remote sensing data assimilation in hydrological models.This book, part of a set of six volumes, has been produced by scientists who are internationally renowned in their fields. It is addressed to students (engineers, Masters, PhD) , engineers and scientists, specialists in remote sensing applied to hydrology. Through this pedagogical work, the authors contribute to breaking down the barriers that hinder the use of Earth observation data.

  • Land Surface Remote Sensing in Agriculture and Forest

    • 1st Edition
    • Nicolas Baghdadi + 1 more
    • English
    The environmental and economic importance of monitoring forests and agricultural resources has allowed remote sensing to be increasingly in the development of products and services responding to user needs.This volume presents the main applications in remote sensing for agriculture and forestry, including the primary soil properties, the estimation of the vegetation’s biophysical variables, methods for mapping land cover, the contribution of remote sensing for crop and water monitoring, and the estimation of the forest cover properties (cover dynamic, height, biomass).This book, part of a set of six volumes, has been produced by scientists who are internationally renowned in their fields. It is addressed to students (engineers, Masters, PhD), engineers and scientists, specialists in remote sensing applied to agriculture and forestry.Through this pedagogical work, the authors contribute to breaking down the barriers that hinder the use of radar imaging techniques.

  • Advances in Theoretical Hydrology

    A Tribute to James Dooge
    • 1st Edition
    • J.P. O'Kane
    • English
    This Festschrift containing sixteen invited essays and papers is a tribute to the distinguished Irish hydrologist James Dooge on the occasion of his 70th birthday. His former students, colleagues and friends in fourteen countries, have provided a varied selection on his favourite topics: flow in open channels and unsaturated soil, and also from his major interest of recent years, large scale hydrology and global change.The book has three sections. The first section on hydrological processes contains six papers. The second section on large scale hydrology has four papers. Six historical, reflective and philosophical essays on the past and future of the hydrological sciences form the third section of the book.

  • Land Surface Remote Sensing in Urban and Coastal Areas

    • 1st Edition
    • Nicolas Baghdadi + 1 more
    • English
    For a long time, the dynamics of urban and coastal areas have been the focus of administrators and decision makers in charge of public policy in order to better take into account anthropogenic pressure and the impact of climate change. This volume presents applications of remote sensing in urban environments and coastal zones, including the use of remote sensing in city planning (urban expansion, light pollution, air quality, etc.), observation of the properties of ocean color, the study of coastal dynamics (identifying coastlines and estimating sediment balances, etc.) and analysis of the dynamics of mangroves. This book, part of a set of six volumes, has been produced by scientists who are internationally renowned in their fields. It is addressed to students (engineers, Masters, PhD), engineers and scientists, specialists in remote sensing applied to the coastal environment and urban areas.Through this pedagogical work, the authors contribute to breaking down the barriers that hinder the use of Earth observation data.

  • Optical Remote Sensing of Land Surface

    Techniques and Methods
    • 1st Edition
    • Nicolas Baghdadi + 1 more
    • English
    The considerable progress in instrumentation and in the development of methods for the processing and analysis of data places remote sensing at the center of various international programs for the surveillance and tracking of climatic and anthropogenic changes and effects on the environment. This volume presents optical imaging and LiDAR systems: their instrumentation, physics of measurement, processing methods and data analysis. The estimation of a digital terrain model based on optical images and LiDAR data is also discussed.This book, part of a set of six volumes, has been produced by scientists who are internationally renowned in their fields. It is addressed to students (engineers, Masters, PhD), engineers and scientists, specialists in Earth observation techniques and imaging systems.Through this pedagogical work, the authors contribute to breaking down the barriers that hinder the use of Earth observation data.

  • Lake Bonneville: A Scientific Update

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 20
    • Charles G. Oviatt + 1 more
    • English
    Lake Bonneville: A Scientific Update showcases new information and interpretations about this important lake in the North American Great Basin, presenting a relatively complete summary of the evolving scientific ideas about the Pleistocene lake. A comprehensive book on Lake Bonneville has not been published since the masterpiece of G.K. Gilbert in 1890. Because of Gilbert’s work, Lake Bonneville has been the starting point for many studies of Quaternary paleolakes in many places throughout the world. Numerous journal articles, and a few books on specialized topics related to Lake Bonneville, have been published since the late 1800s, but here the editors compile the important data and perspectives of the early 21st century into a book that will be an essential reference for future generations. Scientific research on Lake Bonneville is vibrant today and will continue into the future.

  • The Terrestrial Environment, A

    • 1st Edition
    • P. Fritz
    • English
    Handbook of Environmental Isotope Geochemistry, Volume 1: The Terrestrial Environment, A focuses on isotope hydrology and aqueous geochemistry, as well as an overview of carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen isotopes in terrestrial systems. The selection first elaborates on the isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen in precipitation, carbon-14 in hydrogeological studies, and environmental isotopes in groundwater hydrology. Concerns cover groundwater dating, mechanism of salinization, groundwater recharge, models of the isotope fractionation during evaporation and condensation of water in the atmosphere, and stable isotope distribution in atmospheric waters. The book then examines environmental isotopes in ice and snow, isotopic evidence on environments of geothermal systems, and sulfur and oxygen isotopes in aqueous sulfur compounds. Discussions focus on geochemistry and isotope distribution of aqueous sulfur compounds, isotopic dating of geothermal waters, origin of chemical constituents, geothermometry, isotope distribution during the reduction of a temperate snow cover, and snow and ice isotope hydrology. The manuscript explores environmental isotopes as environmental and climatological indicators, sulfur isotopes in the environment, nitrogen-15 in the natural environment, and the isotopic composition of reduced organic carbon. The selection is a valuable reference for researchers interested in isotope geochemistry.

  • Digital Terrain Analysis in Soil Science and Geology

    • 2nd Edition
    • Igor Florinsky
    • English
    Digital Terrain Analysis in Soil Science and Geology, Second Edition, synthesizes the knowledge on methods and applications of digital terrain analysis and geomorphometry in the context of multi-scale problems in soil science and geology. Divided into three parts, the book first examines main concepts, principles, and methods of digital terrain modeling. It then looks at methods for analysis, modeling, and mapping of spatial distribution of soil properties using digital terrain analysis, before finally considering techniques for recognition, analysis, and interpretation of topographically manifested geological features. Digital Terrain Analysis in Soil Science and Geology, Second Edition, is an updated and revised edition, providing both a theoretical and methodological basis for understanding and applying geographical modeling techniques.

  • Land Use and Town and Country Planning

    Reviews of United Kingdom Statistical Sources
    • 1st Edition
    • J. T. Coppock + 1 more
    • W. F. Maunder
    • English
    Land Use and Town and Country Planning is a 14-chapter text that provides statistical data on human land use and town and country planning, with particular emphasis on the Great Britain land statistics. The opening chapters deal with the concepts of land and land use, measurement, and the adoption of the metric system. The succeeding chapters are devoted to land statistics for agriculture, forestry, recreation, conservation and amenity, and other rural land uses. These topics are followed by discussions of urban land estimates and use, as well as land utilization surveys. The final chapters describe the potential of maps, air photography, and improvements in land-use records. This book will prove useful to workers and researchers in the general field of planning.

  • Regolith Exploration Geochemistry in Arctic and Temperate Terrains

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 5
    • Kauranne Kauranne
    • L.K. Kauranne + 2 more
    • English
    Geochemists, geologists, chemists, mathematicians, technicians and amateur prospectors alike will find this a practically oriented and comprehensive handbook for use in the field or office. It describes methodologies for assessing overburden in Arctic and temperate regions. Scientists can study the composition of bedrock by analyzing the overburden and ores found by the separation of the anomalies from the chemical background variation. This task is a very demanding one for previously glaciated terrain, where overburden consists totally of transported and mixed materials. It is possible to trace back the anomalies found in glacial till and sometimes those found in glacifluvial sediments. Special care in sampling and preparation of samples for analysis as well as very sensitive methods of analysis are necessary in obtaining results suitable for successful interpretation. The present handbook is dedicated to these vital problems. The genesis of overburden formations and the character of geochemical anomalies are discussed at length, after which examples are provided from a variety of situations. Articles concerning practical aspects of sampling, analysis and mathematical treatment, written specifically to help investigations are also included. The text is illustrated by 196 drawings, 32 tables and the selected bibliography contains 533 references. A key word list makes the handbook easy to use.

  • Cretaceous Sea Level Rise

    Down Memory Lane and the Road Ahead
    • 1st Edition
    • Mu Ramkumar
    • English
    Cretaceous Sea Level Rise delves into the question of whether the observed short-term sea-level changes are regional (tectonic) or global (eustatic) and determines their possible relation to climate cycles; to assess the role of feedback mechanisms, i.e. thermal expansion/contractio... of seawater, subsidence due to loading by water, changing vegetation of the Earth System and to investigate the relation of sea-level highs and lows to ocean anoxia and oxidation events, represented by black shales and oceanic red beds, and to evaluate the evidence for ephemeral glacial episodes or other climate events. Though research has been, and is being, conducted in these fields since the introduction of sea level cycles and sequence development concepts in the 1970"s, the available information is scattered. Cretaceous Sea Level Rise presents the current understanding and future directions of the research on Cretaceous sea level cycles in a single source, forming a reference work for beginners, graduates and postgraduates who are interested in this subject.

  • Reflexive Cartography

    A New Perspective in Mapping
    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 6
    • Emanuela Casti
    • English
    Reflexive Cartography addresses the adaptation of cartography, including its digital forms (GIS, WebGIS, PPGIS), to the changing needs of society, and outlines the experimental context aimed at mapping a topological space. Using rigorous scientific analysis based on statement consistency, relevance of the proposals, and model accessibility, it charts the transition from topographical maps created by state agencies to open mapping produced by citizens. Adopting semiotic theory to uncover the complex communicative mechanisms of maps and to investigate their ability to produce their own messages and new perspectives, Reflexive Cartography outlines a shift in our way of conceptualizing maps: from a plastic metaphor of reality, as they are generally considered, to solid tools that play the role of agents, assisting citizens as they think and plan their own living place and make sense of the current world.

  • Paleokarst

    A Systematic and Regional Review
    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 1
    • P. Bosák + 3 more
    • English
    Prepared by some of the world's leading experts in the field, this book is the first summarizing work on the origin, importance and exploitation of paleokarst. It offers an extensive regional survey, mainly concerning the Northern Hemisphere, as well as a thorough analysis of the problems of research into paleokarst phenomena, with particular emphasis on theoretical contributions and practical exploitation. By concentrating on phenomena which have appeared in the course of geological history, the book represents a substantial development in the general theory of paleokarst and demonstrates the advantages of a comprehensive approach to the problem. Considerable emphasis is put on the economic importance of paleokarst phenomena, from the point of view of exploiting significant deposits of mineral raw materials, as well as from a civil engineering and hydrological point of view.Since the publication deals with a boundary scientific discipline, it is intended for specialists from various branches of science: geologists, paleontologists, economic geologists, geographers, mining engineers and hydrogeologists.

  • Ground Improvement Case Histories

    Chemical, Electrokinetic, Thermal and Bioengineering
    • 1st Edition
    • Buddhima Indraratna + 2 more
    • English
    Written by an international group of experts, Ground Improvement Case Histories: Chemical, Electrokinetic, Thermal and Bioengineering Methods provides over 700 pages of case-histories collected from all over the world. Each case-history provides an overview of the specific technology followed by applications, and in some cases, comprehensive back analysis through numerical modelling is discussed. The book includes methods for employing bacterial and biological treatment, and native vegetation for stabilizing problematic soils. Specific case-histories included in the book are: Effect of Drainage and Grouting for the World Longest Seikan Undersea Tunnel Construction, Cement/lime Mixing Ground Improvement for Road Construction on Soft Ground, Use of Jet Grouting in Deep Excavations, and Stabilization of Reactive Sulphide Mine Tailings using Water Cover Technology.

  • Geomorphology of Central America

    A Syngenetic Perspective
    • 1st Edition
    • Jean Pierre Bergoeing
    • English
    Geomorphology of Central America is authored by a scientist with more than 30 years of regional assessment research experience in Central American countries, arming scientists with a classic research method—a method most effective when applied to specific geographic regions globally. The scientific techniques used for assessing regional studies of an area reflect a level of expertise that has become more difficult to come by over the past three decades and underscores the importance of regional assessments of geomorphological features. Complemented with beautifully crafted and exacting maps that capture the region’s unique landscapes, Geomorphology of Central America introduces a global vision of the geomorphology and volcanic field of Central America from Guatemala to Panama, making it the first single source of geomorphological content for the region.

  • Geofluids

    Developments in Microthermometry, Spectroscopy, Thermodynamics, and Stable Isotopes
    • 1st Edition
    • Vratislav Hurai + 3 more
    • English
    Geofluids: Developments in Microthermometry, Spectroscopy, Thermodynamics, and Stable Isotopes is the definitive source on paleofluids and the migration of hydrocarbons in sedimentary basins—ideal for researchers in oil and gas exploration. There’s been a rapid development of new non-destructive analytical methods and interdisciplinary research that makes it difficult to find a single source of content on the subject of geofluids. Geoscience researchers commonly use multiple tools to interpret geologic problems, particularly if the problems involve fluid-rock interaction. This book perfectly combines the techniques of fluid inclusion microthermometry, stable isotope analyses, and various types of spectroscopy, including Raman analysis, to contribute to a thorough approach to research. Through a practical and intuitive step-by-step approach, the authors explain sample preparation, measurements, and the interpretation and analysis of data related to thermodynamics and mineral-fluid equilibria.

  • Geomorphological Fieldwork

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 18
    • English
    Geomorphological Fieldwork addresses a topic that always remains popular within the geosciences and environmental science. More specifically, the volume conveys a growing legacy of field-based learning for young geomorphologists that can be used as a student book for field-based university courses and postgraduate research requiring fieldwork or field schools. The editors have much experience of field-based learning within geomorphology and extend this to physical geography. The topics covered are relevant to basic geomorphology as well as applied approaches in environmental and cultural geomorphology. The book integrates a physical-human approach to geography, but focuses on physical geography and geomorphology from an integrated field-based geoscience perspective.

  • Practical and Applied Hydrogeology

    • 1st Edition
    • Zekâi Şen
    • English
    Applications in Hydrogeology for Geoscientists presents the most recent scientific developments in the field that are accessible yet rigorous enough for industry professionals and academic researchers alike. A multi-contributed reference that features the knowledge and experience of the field’s experts, the book’s chapters span the full scope of hydrogeology, introducing new approaches and progress in conceptualization, simulation of groundwater flow and transport, and progressive hydro-geophysical methods. Each chapter includes examples of recent developments in hydrogeology, groundwater, and hydrology that are underscored with perspectives regarding the challenges that are facing industry professionals, researchers, and academia. Several sub-themes—including theoretical advances in conceptualization and modeling of hydro-geologic challenges—connect the chapters and weave the topics together holistically. Advances in research are aided by insights arising from observations from both field and laboratory work.

  • Natural Resources in Afghanistan

    Geographic and Geologic Perspectives on Centuries of Conflict
    • 1st Edition
    • John F. Shroder
    • English
    Natural Resources in Afghanistan: Geographic and Geologic Perspectives on Centuries of Conflict details Afghanistan's physical geography — namely climate, soils, vegetation, water, hazards, and basic geologic background and terrain landforms — together with details of its rich natural resources, ethnic problems, and relevant past histories. The book couples these details with the challenges of environmental degradation and new environmental management and protection, all of which are considered finally in both pessimistic and optimistic modes. The reader comes away with a nuanced understanding of the issues that are likely to have great affect for this pivotal region of the world for decades to come. With an estimated $1-3 trillion dollars of ore in the ground, and multiple cross-reinforcing cancellations of big Asian power machinations (China, India, Iran, Pakistan), Afghanistan has an opportunity to gain more economic independence. At the same time, however, historic forces of negativity also pull it back toward the chaos and uncertainty that has defined the country and constrained its economic progress for decades.

  • Developments in the Theory and Practice of Cybercartography

    Applications and Indigenous Mapping
    • 2nd Edition
    • Volume 4
    • D.R. Fraser Taylor
    • English
    Developments in the Theory and Practice of Cybercartography—awa... an Honorable Mention in Earth Science at the Association of American Publishers' 2015 PROSE Awards—examines some of the recent developments in the theory and practice of cybercartography and the substantial changes which have taken place since the first edition published in 2005. It continues to examine the major elements of cybercartography and emphasizes the importance of interaction between theory and practice in developing a paradigm which moves beyond the concept of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Geographical Information Science.Cybercartogr... is a new paradigm for maps and mapping in the information era. Defined as "the organization, presentation, analysis and communication of spatially referenced information on a wide variety of topics of interest to society," cybercartography is presented in an interactive, dynamic, multisensory format with the use of multimedia and multimodal interfaces.The seven major elements of cybercartography outlined in the first edition have been supplemented by six key ideas and the definition of cybercartography has been extended and expanded. The new practice of mapping traditional knowledge in partnership with indigenous people has led to new theoretical understanding as well as innovative cybercartographic atlases. Featuring more than 90% new and revised content, this volume is a result of a multidisciplinary team effort and has benefited from the input of partners from government, industry and aboriginal non-governmental organizations.

  • Applications of Remote Sensing in Agriculture

    • 1st Edition
    • M. D. Steven + 1 more
    • English
    Applications of Remote Sensing in Agriculture contains the proceedings of the 48th Easter School in Agricultural Science, held at the University of Nottingham on April 3-7, 1989. The meeting invites 146 delegates from over 22 countries and contributions to this book come from nine countries. This book generally presents a review of the achievements of remote sensing in agriculture, establishes the state of the art, and gives pointers to developments. This text is organized into seven parts, wherein Parts I-III cover the principles of remote sensing, climate, soil, land classification, and crop inventories. Productivity; stress; techniques for agricultural applications; and opportunities, progress, and prospects in the field of remote sensing in agriculture are also discussed.

  • South America, Central America and Africa

    South America, Central America and Africa
    • 1st Edition
    • Rolf Bohme
    • English
    Topographic mapping plays a basic and important role within the extensive field of cartography. In recent years, this type of mapping has become somewhat neglected and available literature is normally restricted to details concerning the programmes of individual countries often presented in the form of monographs. Topographic maps are essential tools for use in development projects, resource exploitation, the planning of construction, infrastructure and recreation. They also give detailed illustration of the relative degrees of development of areas within a landscape and are thus unique in demonstrating the cultural status of a country. This book is the second of three volumes and gives details and examples of topographic maps from Central and South America and Africa. The information supplied for each country consists of a text, including a brief history of the development of topographic mapping, geodetic data, map scales and series, as well as extracts of maps and index sheets illustrating the present status of map coverage within that country. There is currently no other work employing the approach adopted in assembling this inventory. This work is a comprehensive and important reference and source book for information in the field of topographic mapping.

  • Geographic Information Systems

    The Microcomputer and Modern Cartography
    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 1
    • D.R. Fraser Taylor
    • English
    Technological changes are revolutionising cartography and there is a growing convergence between geographic information systems and computer assisted cartography. This book describes in detail the relationship between geographic information systems and modern cartography and considers all aspects from data collection to presentation and applications. Written by some of the world's leading cartographers, the book examines the emergence of electronic mapping systems and stresses both analysis and visualisation.

  • Visualization in Modern Cartography

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 2
    • A.M. MacEachren + 1 more
    • English
    Visualization in Modern Cartography explores links between the centuries-old discipline of cartography and today's revolutionary developments in scientific visualization. The book has three main goals: (1) to pass on design and symbolization expertise to the scientific visualization community - information that comes from centuries of pre-computer visualization by cartographers, and their more recent experiences with computerizing the discipline; (2) to help cartographers cope with the dramatic shift from print cartography to a dynamic virtual cartography for which their role is changing from that of map designer to one of spatial information display (and/or interface) designer; (3) to illustrate the expanded role for cartography in geographic, environmental, planning, and earth science applications that comes with the development of interactive geographic visualization tools. To achieve these goals, the book is divided into three parts. The first sets the historical, cognitive, and technological context for geographic/cartograp... visualization tool development. The second covers key technological, symbolization, and user interface issues. The third provides a detailed look at selected prototype geographic/cartograp... visualization tools and their applications.

  • Coordinate Systems and Map Projections

    • 2nd Edition
    • D.H. Maling
    • English
    A revised and expanded new edition of the definitive English work on map projections. The revisions take into account the huge advances in geometrical geodesy which have occurred since the early years of satellite geodesy. The detailed configuration of the geoid resulting from the GEOS and SEASAT altimetry measurements are now taken into consideration. Additionally, the chapter on computation of map projections is updated bearing in mind the availability of pocket calculators and microcomputers. Analytical derivation of some map projections including examples of pseudocylindrical and polyconic projections is also covered. Work undertaken in the USA and USSR on the creation of suitable map projections obtained through numerical analysis has been included. The book concludes with a chapter on the abuse and misrepresentation of map projections. An invaluable reference source for professional cartographers and all those interested in the fundamental problems of mapping the Earth.

  • Cartography Past, Present and Future

    A Festschrift for F.J. Ormeling
    • 1st Edition
    • D.W. Rhind + 1 more
    • English
    Making maps dates back at least four thousand years and it is widely recognised that many maps are of great historical value and present a skilled method of summarising the real world on a sheet of paper. Less well known is the judgement involved in the selection and simplification of features, the complex transformation of space and the exacting standards which are needed in cartography. This book is primarily a tribute to Professor F.J. Ormeling, former President and Secretary/Treasurer of the ICA and gives a wide ranging review of the current status of cartography, how this status was attained and the way in which the subject is expected to evolve over the next decade. It is composed of two main sections. In the first, the present state of cartography in different countries is examined. The second section is a thematic view in which some of the major issues and developments in cartography are discussed in turn, including art and science in cartography, the character of historical cartography, the role of map making in developing countries, the impact of a possible ideal computer mapping facility and how cartography has changed in recent years. There are international contributions from authors distinguished and internationally recognised in cartography and related fields and who have had a significant input to the ICA.

  • Elements of Spatial Data Quality

    • 1st Edition
    • S.C. Guptill + 1 more
    • English
    Elements of Spatial Data Quality outlines the need and suggests potential categories for the content of a comprehensive statement of data quality that must be imbedded in the metadata that accompanies the transfer of a digital spatial data file or is available in a separate metadata catalog. Members of the International Cartographic Association's Commission on Spatial Data Quality have identified seven elements of data quality: positional accuracy, attribute accuracy, completeness, logical consistency, lineage, semantic accuracy and temporal information. In the book the authors describe: components of each data quality element, possible metrics that can be used to measure the quality of each criteria, possible testing and rating schemes, and how these parameters might differ from a producer or user point of view. Finally no volume of this nature would be complete without a chapter devoted to necessary future research in this subject area. The chapter points out areas in need of further investigation and speculates about the use and transfer of digital spatial data in tomorrow's electronic world and at developments in presenting specified data quality information in a visualization. This book will be of interest to all of those individuals involved in geographical information systems and spatial data handling.

  • Optical Remote Sensing of Air Pollution

    Lectures of a Course Held at the Joint Research Centre, Ispra (Italy), 12-15 April 1983
    • 1st Edition
    • P. Camagni + 1 more
    • English

  • Weathering, Soils & Paleosols

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 2
    • I.P. Martini + 1 more
    • English
    For the past 200 years, geological scientists have used the present as a key to unlocking the past. This volume continues the tradition by exploring the processes of weathering and soil formation as indicators of the present environment of the Earth's land surface. Examined are the various ways in which this information can be used to interpret past environments which have produced the soils now preserved as paleosols. Because the surface environment of the earth may now be undergoing rapid change (the greenhouse effect), the book is a timely one for those researchers looking for evidence of analogous changes in the Earth's past. The work is divided into three major sections. The first deals with fundamental considerations of weathering, clay mineralogy and diagenesis. The second deals with the formation of soils from various starting materials and in various surficial environments. And the final section is an interpretation of paleosols. This volume provides valuable reading material for graduate and senior-undergraduate courses.

  • Eastern Europe, Asia, Oceania and Antarctica

    Eastern Europe, Asia, Oceania and Antarctica
    • 1st Edition
    • R. Böhme + 1 more
    • English
    This volume completes the International Cartographic Association's trilogy which has been prepared to provide an "Inventory of World Topographic Mapping", and contains specific details relating to the current coverage of states located in Eastern Europe, Asia, Pacific and Antarctica. The geographical positions of countries described are illustrated by means of a series of accompanying reference maps. The information supplied for each country consists of a text, including a brief history of the development of topographic mapping, geodetic data, map scales and series as well as extracts of maps and index sheets illustrating the present status of map coverage within that country. There is currently no other work employing the approach adopted in assembling this "inventory". This work is a comprehensive and important reference and source book for information in the field of topographic mapping.

  • Glacial Geology

    An Introduction for Engineers and Earth Scientists
    • 1st Edition
    • N. Eyles
    • English
    An introduction for courses that involve some knowledge of glacial geology and sediments of formerly glaciated terrains. The early chapters describe depositional processes at modern glacier and ice-sheet margins relating sediments and landforms in recurring "landsystems". Later chapters portray the distribution of these landsystems in Pleistocene glaciated terrains of the mid-latitudes, focussing on commonly encountered problems in various fields from stratigraphic and sedimentological investigations to construction problems relating to roads and dams. The resulting text is a summation of a large body of literature previously accessible only to specialists. A substantial reference list is complemented by cross-references throughout.

  • The River Nile

    Geology, Hydrology and Utilization
    • 1st Edition
    • R. Said
    • English
    This multidisciplinary book by the author of The Geology of Egypt is the result of many years of research. It attempts to reconstruct the history of the River Nile from its origins to its present shape and regimen and also to ascertain the amount of water which has been carried by the river during the course of its history. It examines the manner in which this water was utilized in the past and the ways in which it will have to be used in future if the inhabitants of the river basin are to cope with their anticipated needs.Part One traces the geological history of the Nile from the time it started to excavate its valley some six million years ago until the present shape was assumed during the wet period which affected Africa after the retreat of the ice of the last glacial age some 10,000 years ago. Part Two deals with the amount of water that the river and its tributaries carry at present and have carried in the past. Part Three discusses the utilization of the water of the Nile from the time of the first appearance of man in the valley until the present time. It traces man's attempt to harness the river from the earliest time to the building of the Aswan High Dam. The book evaluates the effects of the dam after twenty years of operation. Part Four covers the present water supply-demand balance in each basin state and discusses the future plans of these countries to use the waters of the Nile. The rapidly growing populations and the prolonged droughts of recent years have put pressure upon the available waters of the river.

  • Western Europe, North America and Australasia

    Western Europe, North America and Australasia
    • 1st Edition
    • Rolf Bohme
    • English
    Topographic mapping plays a basic and important role within the extensive field of cartography. In recent years, this type of mapping has become somewhat neglected and available literature is normally restricted to details concerning the programmes of individual countries, often presented in the form of monographs. Topographic maps are essential tools for use in development projects, resource exploitation, the planning of construction, infrastructure and recreation. Furthermore, they give a detailed illustration of the relative degrees of development of areas within a landscape and are thus unique in demonstrating the cultural status of a country. This book is the first of three volumes and provides an introduction to world topographic mapping giving details and examples of topographic maps from Western Europe, North America and Australasia. The information supplied for each country consists of a text, including a brief history of the development of topographic mapping, geodetic data, map scales and series, as well as extracts of maps and index sheets illustrating the present status of map coverage within that country. There is currently no other work employing the approach adopted in assembling this `inventory'. This work is a comprehensive and important reference and source book for information in the field of topographic mapping.

  • Geomorphology: The Research Frontier and Beyond

    Proceedings of the 24th Binghamton Symposium in Geomorphology, August 25, 1993
    • 1st Edition
    • J.D. Vitek + 1 more
    • English
    Perspectives on the future directions of research in geomorphology form the major theme of this volume. Ten geomorphologists were asked to "star-gaze", that is provide opinions about the future direction of their specialty. Each paper is supported by the literature that currently defines the research frontier.

  • Freshwater Ecosystems

    Modelling and Simulation
    • 1st Edition
    • A.H. Gnauck + 1 more
    • English
    Ecosystem analysis and ecological modelling is a rapidly developing interdisciplinary branch of science used in theoretical developments in ecology and having practical applications in environmental protection. In this book, the authors introduce new holistic, particularly cybernetic, concepts into ecosystem theory and modelling, and provide a concise treatment of mathematical modelling of freshwater ecosystems which covers methods, subsystem models, applications and theoretical developments.Part I begins with a brief introduction to the principles of systems theory and their applications to ecosystems, and provides a summary of various methods of systems analysis. In Part II emphasis is laid on the pelagic processes in standing water, characterised by relatively uninvolved structures from which models can be readily developed. Part III describes applications of the technique of modelling to solutions of theoretical and practical problems, with different modelling methods and objectives being used in the various chapters. More recent developments in the methods and theory of ecosystem modelling are covered in Part IV which also includes a discussion of future trends. The book is addressed to practising ecologists and engineers in the fields of ecology, limnology, environmental protection, and water quality managements, as well as to graduate/post-gradua... university students in science and engineering. Students and researchers involved in environmental applications of mathematics and cybernetics will also find the book of interest.

  • The Structure of Western Europe

    • 1st Edition
    • J. G. C. Anderson
    • English
    After a brief account of the stratigraphy in each case, the author summarises the structure of the main tectonic units of Western Europe, the units being defined within the framework of Precambrian, Caledonian, Hercynian and Alpine structures. The work provides accounts of these structural units both for geological study in general and for field visits for advanced school level and research students. A useful complementary volume to 'The Structure of the British Isles' (Anderson and Owen).

  • Logistics and Benefits of Using Mathematical Models of Hydrologic and Water Resource Systems

    Selected Papers with Summary of Discussions from the International Symposium on Logistics and Benefits of Using Mathematical Models of Hydrologic and Water Resource Systems, Pisa, Italy, 24—26 October 1978
    • 1st Edition
    • A.J. Askew + 2 more
    • English
    Logistics and Benefits of Using Mathematical Models of Hydrologic and Water Resource Systems is a collection of paper that details the experiences in the operational and logistical aspects of utilizing water resource models. The title provides the general report on model structure and classification; experiences of the hydrologic engineering center in maintaining widely used hydrologic and water resource computer models; and the operational experience of on-line hydrological simulation. The selection also covers the implementation and application of a suite for the simulation of complex water resource systems in evaluation and planning studies; and the use of a groundwater model in the design, performance; and the assessment, and operation of a river regulation scheme. The book will be of great use to researchers and practitioners of hydrological sciences.

  • Geomorphology and Natural Hazards

    Proceedings of the 25th Binghamton Symposium in Geomorphology, Held September 24-25, 1994 at SUNY, Binghamton, USA
    • 1st Edition
    • M. Morisawa
    • English
    The theme of this proceedings volume is the latest research on geomorphic characteristics and processes associated with natural hazards. Presentations cover a gamut of types of disasters throughout the world, describing research and applications of studies in the U.S. and other countries. The book begins with a collection of papers giving a basic background and philosophy of approaching an understanding of natural disasters. These are followed by papers on natural hazards in coastal areas, mountainous regions, landslides, flooding and the detrimental effects of permafrost.The book should prove valuable in gaining an insight of natural hazards and their geomorphic relations, which is imperative for prudent environmental planning in coping with disasters.

  • Spatial Database Transfer Standards

    Current International Status
    • 1st Edition
    • H. Moellering
    • English
    Since the 1960's individuals and organisations throughout the world have been building geographic databases used in conjunction with geographic hardware and software systems to collect, analyse, display and archive digital data. Through the years it was recognised that efficiencies could be gained if the geographic database built by one group could be used by multiple users across different computer systems and formats. Therefore, it was acknowledged that spatial database transfer standards were needed to facilitate the exchange and transfer of digital geographic data.Throughout the 1980's several organisations worldwide began working on the problem of producing spatial database transfer standards. As this work was initiated, research workers began to informally compare notes and developments. The International Cartographic Association [ICA], recognising the worldwide importance of standards, organised a Standards Working Group. The initial goal of this working group was to produce a monograph reporting on the present state of development in digital database transfer standards.This book is a unique collection of reports by individual nations and international organisations that describe existing geographic standards and summarize efforts to develop geographic database transfer standards worldwide.

  • Thematic Mapping from Satellite Imagery

    An International Report
    • 1st Edition
    • J. Denègre
    • English
    This report, produced between 1984 and 1987 in a bilingual edition (English and French), provides a wealth of information on a wide variety of cartographic applications which are being developed to make effective use of new data that is now being collected by Earth observation satellites. At a time when natural resource development and environmental problems have to be taken into account in their entirety, satellites provide an exceptional means of evaluating, synthesizing and creating geographic information. The production of new images, such as the Landsat Thematic Mapper, the SPOT High Resolution Visible Sensor and the adoption meteorological images such as AVHRR sensors on NOAA satellites, which have been extended to thematic domains such as agriculture and glaciology, have led to many new developments as well as problems for the cartographer. These problems are numerous and varied and recur frequently depending on the images and themes being processed e.g. how to select the graphic specification of maps and legends and account for classification accuracy; how to introduce the minimum of topographical data into an image in order to supply users with an adequate geographic reference; when using a physical terrain image, on which, by definition there are no `blanks' and where no details have been eliminated, how to overcome conceptual difficulties e.g. the side by side placing of different semiological information; the interpretation levels left to reader; achieving a balance between objectivity and readability. Obviously the cartographers role is of prime importance in solving these problems. In order to illustrate the way in which this information is presented, the report provides samples from 33 thematic applications taken from 13 different categories, including agriculture, town planning and water resources. Each application is provided with a descriptive note both in English and French indicating the objective, method and results obtained. This volume provides an important record of current developments in thematic mapping from satellite imagery and should be essential reference for all cartographers.

  • The Terrestrial Environment, B

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume B
    • P. Fritz
    • English
    Handbook of Environmental Isotope Geochemistry, Volume 2: The Terrestrial Environment, B focuses on the processes, methodologies, principles, and approaches involved in isotope geochemistry. The selection first elaborates on mathematical models for the interpretation of environmental radioisotopes in groundwater systems; isotopes in cloud physics; and environmental isotopes in lake studies. Discussions focus on water balance studies of lakes, isotopic fractionations during evaporation of water, study of hailstone growth mechanisms by means of isotopic analyses, isotopic effects during growth of individual elements, and models and their hydrological significance. The text then takes a look at environmental isotope and anthropogenic tracers of lake sedimentation; stable isotope geochemistry of travertines; and isotope geochemistry of carbonates in the weathering zone. Topics include isotopic composition of carbonates in the weathering zone; reprecipitation processes in the weathering zone; isotopic composition of carbon and oxygen sources in the weathering zone; and geochemical conditions controlling travertine deposition. The manuscript also reviews radioactive noble gases in the terrestrial environment, isotope effects of nitrogen in the soil and biosphere, and oxygen and hydrogen isotope geochemistry of deep basin brines. The selection is a vital source of data for researchers interested in isotope geochemistry.

  • Groundwater Ecology

    • 1st Edition
    • Jack A. Stanford
    • English
    Groundwater has long been an object of intense scrutiny. Only recently have methods become available that permit ecologists, hydrologists, and environmental scientists to assess the biotic and abiotic status of these all-important aquifers.

  • Interpreting Aerial Photographs to Identify Natural Hazards

    • 1st Edition
    • Charles E. Glass
    • English
    Authored by a world-renowned aerial photography and remote sensing expert, Geographic Aerial Photography: Identifying Earth-Surface Hazards Through Image Interpretation is the most practical and authoritative reference available for any professional or student looking for a reference on how to recognize, analyze, interpret and avoid – or successfully plan for – dangerous contingencies. Whether they are related to natural terrain, geology, vegetation, hydrology or land use patterns – it’s critical for you to be able to recognize dangerous conditions when and where they exist. Failure to adequately recognize and characterize geomorphic, geologic, and hydrologic dangers on the ground using aerial photography is one of the major factors contributing to due to natural hazards and disasters, damage to architectural structures, and often the subsequent loss of human life as a result. Aerial photographs provide one of the most prevalent, inexpensive and under-utilized tools to those with the knowledge and expertise to interpret them.

  • Computational Methods in Subsurface Flow

    • 3rd Edition
    • Peter S. Huyakorn
    • English
    Computational Methods in Subsurface Flow explores the application of all of the commonly encountered computational methods to subsurface problems. Among the problems considered in this book are groundwater flow and contaminant transport; moisture movement in variably saturated soils; land subsidence and similar flow and deformation processes in soil and rock mechanics; and oil and geothermal reservoir engineering. This book is organized into 10 chapters and begins with an introduction to partial differential and various solution approaches used in subsurface flow. The discussion then shifts to the fundamental theory of the finite element method, with emphasis on the Galerkin finite element method and how it can be used to solve a wide range of subsurface problems. The subjects treated range from simple problems of saturated groundwater flow to more complex ones of moisture movement and multiphase flow in petroleum reservoirs. The chapters that follow focus on fluid flow and mechanical deformation of conventional and fractured porous media; point and subdomain collocation techniques and the boundary element technique; and the applications of finite difference techniques to single- and multiphase flow and solute transport. The final chapter is devoted to other alternative numerical methods that are based on combinations of the standard finite difference approach and classical mathematics. This book is intended for senior undergraduate and graduate students in geoscience and engineering, as well as for professional groundwater hydrologists, engineers, and research scientists who want to solve or model subsurface problems using numerical techniques.

  • Soil Water Repellency

    Occurrence, Consequences, and Amelioration
    • 1st Edition
    • C.J. Ritsema + 1 more
    • English
    It has become clear that soil water repellency is much more wide-spread than formerly thought. Water repellency has been reported in most continents of the world for varying land uses and climatic conditions. Soil water repellency often leads to severe runoff and erosion, rapid leaching of surface-applied agrichemicals, and losses of water and nutrient availability for crops. At present, no optimum management strategies exist for water repellent soils, focusing on minimizing environmental risks while maintaining crop production. The book starts with a historical overview of water repellency research, followed by seven thematic sections covering 26 research chapters. The first section discusses the origin, the second the assessment, and the third the occurrence and hydrological implications of soil water repellency. The fourth section is devoted to the effect of fire on water repellency, section five deals with the physics and modeling of flow and transport in water repellent soils, section six presents amelioration techniques and farming strategies to combat soil water repellency, and section seven concludes the book with an extensive bibliography on soil water repellency.

  • Land and Stream Salinity : An International Seminar and Workshop Held in November 1980 in Perth Western Australia

    An International Seminar and Workshop Held in November 1980 in Perth Western Australia
    • 1st Edition
    • L.W. Holmes
    • English
    Land and Stream Salinity is a compilation of papers that review the state and knowledge of processes involved in land and stream salinity, and that consider its application in different environments. This book also identifies gaps in research and development, and it designates the priorities that could significantly benefit salinity control. In addition, it identifies alternative strategies of land and water management for salinity control and determines techniques for evaluating quantitatively the alternative strategies. Furthermore, this book focuses on salinity problems in south Western Australia. After discussing the history and effects of salinity in Western Australia, the book considers the influence of plant communities on the hydrology of catchments, and it discusses evapotranspiration rates from wet and dry foliage and soil water deficit. This is followed by the transport of salts in soils and subsoils; the residence times of water and solutes within and below the root zone and saturated zone; analyses of solute distributions in deeply weathered soils; and the transport of salts in catchments and soils. This book also includes chapters on the saline seed development and control in the North American Great Plains, and the terrain, groundwater and secondary salinity in Victoria, Australia. It also presents the hydrologic model, the solute-transport models and their role in the analysis of groundwater, and the hydrosalinity models. The last chapters focus on different kinds of management for salinity control.

  • Biogeomorphology, Terrestrial and Freshwater Systems

    • 1st Edition
    • C.R. Hupp + 2 more
    • English
    Biogeomorphology, a relatively new term, refers to relations between the biota and geomorphic form and process. Ecology is the study of organisms in relation to their physical and biotic environment. Thus, ecogeomorphology could have been an equally acceptable name for this publication which stresses the ecological aspects of the larger field of biology. Most of the articles relate vegetation to fluvial geomorphology, erosion, and sedimentation. However, articles showing the significance of animal ecological studies and their bearing on geomorphic form and process are also included.Geographica... the papers range from arid areas in the American Southwest and Israel to the new world tropics. Most articles, however, are concerned with temperate areas of North America and Western Europe.This is among the first books to approach the role that biota and ecology play in geomorphic processes and should be on the shelf of every landscape ecologist.

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