Books in Earth and planetary sciences

Elsevier's Earth and Planetary Sciences collection brings together pioneering research on the complexities of our planet and beyond. Covering topics from Earth's structural dynamics and ecosystems to planetary exploration, these titles support advancements in geoscience, environmental science, and space studies, offering essential insights for researchers, professionals, and students.

Books Journals

The Expanding Earth

1st Edition
Volume 10
October 22, 2013
S.W. Carey
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 8 9 5 5 7

Developments in Geotectonics, 10: The Expanding Earth focuses on the principles, methodologies, transformations, and approaches involved in the expanding earth concept. The book first elaborates on the development of the expanding earth concept, necessity for expansion, and the subduction myth. Discussions focus on higher velocity under Benioff zone, seismic attenuation, blue schists and paired metamorphic belts, dispersion of polygons, arctic paradox, and kinematic contrast. The manuscript then ponders on the scale of tectonic phenomena, non-uniformitarianis... tectonic profiles, and paleomagnetism. Concerns cover global paleomagnetism, general summary of the tectonic profile, implosions, fluid pressures, pure shear, crustal extension, simple shear with horizontal axis, geological examples of scale fields, and length-time fields of deformation. The publication explores the cause of expansion, modes of crustal extension, and rotation and asymmetry of the earth, including dynamic asymmetry, precessions, nutations, librations, and wobbles at fixed obliquity, variation of rate of rotation, and categories of submarine ridges. The text is a dependable source of data for researchers wanting to study the concept of expanding earth.

Engineering Sites

1st Edition
October 22, 2013
Barry Voight
English
eBook
9 7 8 0 4 4 4 5 9 8 0 1 1

Developments in Geotechnical Engineering, Vol. 14B: Rockslides and Avalanches, 2: Engineering Sites focuses on initiatives to offer a foundation for studies of mass movement phenomena in the Western Hemisphere. The selection first takes a look at the contributions of Josef Stini to engineering, geology, and slope movement investigations, the concept of Karl Terzhagi on rockslides, and the contributions of Laurits Bjerrum to the mechanics of rockslides. Concerns cover stability of hard rock slopes, influence of geological details, relation between slide process and remedial treatment, water pressure in pores and fractures, slope creep, rockslides, and avalanches, and early warning of an impending slide. The publication then examines rock slope movements with hydroelectric power projects in Mexico, Bighorn Reservoir slides in Montana, U.S.A., rock avalanche and wave at Chungar, Peru, and wedge rockslides in Libby Dam and Lake Koocanusa in Montana. The text examines Hogarth Pit slope failure in Ontario, Canada, pit slope performance in shale in Wyoming U.S.A., Twin Buttes pit slope failure in Arizona, U.S.A., and the Prime Mine slope failure in Arizona, U.S.A. Discussions focus on stability analyses, description of slope failures, cause of failure, remedial actions, geotechnical properties of tertiary shales, and subsequent slope performance. The selection is a valuable source of data for researchers interested in rockslides and avalanches.

Introduction to the Mathematics of Inversion in Remote Sensing and Indirect Measurements

1st Edition
Volume 3
October 22, 2013
S. Twomey
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 8 9 5 6 4

Developments in Geomathematics, 3: Introduction to the Mathematics of Inversion in Remote Sensing and Indirect Measurements focuses on the application of the mathematics of inversion in remote sensing and indirect measurements, including vectors and matrices, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and integral equations. The publication first examines simple problems involving inversion, theory of large linear systems, and physical and geometric aspects of vectors and matrices. Discussions focus on geometrical view of matrix operations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, matrix products, inverse of a matrix, transposition and rules for product inversion, and algebraic elimination. The manuscript then tackles the algebraic and geometric aspects of functions and function space and linear inversion methods, as well as the algebraic and geometric nature of constrained linear inversion, least squares solution, approximation by sums of functions, and integral equations. The text examines information content of indirect sensing measurements, further inversion techniques, and linear inversion methods. The publication is a valuable reference for researchers interested in the application of the mathematics of inversion in remote sensing and indirect measurements.

Sedimentary Basins of Continental Margins and Cratons

1st Edition
October 22, 2013
M.H.P. Bott
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 5 7 2 5 9

Developments in Geotectonics, 12: Sedimentary Basins of Continental Margins and Cratons focuses on the formation, movements, characteristics, and evolution of sedimentary basins of continental margins and cratons. The selection first offers information on mechanisms of basin subsidence and rheology of the lithosphere. Discussions focus on hypotheses of basin subsidence mechanism, testing the hypotheses, elastic properties and flexural rigidity of the lithosphere, and rheology of young continental margins. The text then elaborates on flexure of the lithosphere and continental margin basins and thermal and mechanical evolution of the Michigan basin. The book ponders on the formation of sedimentary basins of graben type by extension of the continental crust and major synchronous events in continental shelves. Topics include inception of shelf development, mid-cretaceous change, taphrogenic subsidence, and energy budget of wedge subsidence mechanism. The manuscript also examines development of graben associated with the initial ruptures of the Atlantic Ocean and observations on the processes of sedimentary basin formation at the margins of Southern Africa. The selection is a dependable reference for readers interested in the study of continental margins.

Nuclear Methods in Mineral Exploration and Production

1st Edition
October 22, 2013
Jerome G. Morse
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 5 6 8 6 3

Developments in Economic Geology, 7: Nuclear Methods in Mineral Exploration and Production elaborates on the status of applicable nuclear techniques used in mineral exploration and production. The selection first offers information on radiometric methods and X-ray analysis in mineral exploration. Discussions focus on gamma-ray spectrometry, radon detection, autoradiography of uranium and thorium, X-ray diffraction, and application of X-ray analysis. The text then examines X-ray fluorescence geochemical analysis on the surface of Mars and radioactivation methods, as well as nuclear geochemical measurements of planetary surface; radioactivation methods for mineral exploration; and radioactivation sources. The publication takes a look at nuclear well logging for petroleum and the potential of plowshare for resource development. Topics include natural radiation, induced logs, description of potential applications related to energy resources, and obstacles to the development of a commercial plowshare program in the U.S. The selection is a dependable source of data for readers interested in the use of nuclear techniques in mineral production and exploration.

Trace Elements in Igneous Petrology

1st Edition
Volume 5
October 22, 2013
C.J. Allègre + 1 more
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 8 9 5 9 5

Trace Elements in Igneous Petrology, 5: Developments in Petrology: A Volume in Memory of Paul W. Gast focuses on the contributions and influence of Gast in petrology, including crystallization, magmatic processes, isotopic composition, and ocean ridge basalt chemistry. The selection first takes a look at quantitative models of trace element behavior in magmatic processes; application of trace elements to the petrogenesis of igneous rocks of granitic composition; and an assessment of local and regional isotopic equilibrium in the mantle. Discussions focus on evidence derived from time constraints, scale of isotopic disequilibrium, fractional crystallization, trace element modeling, geodynamics and tectonic setting, partition coefficients, quantitative models for trace elements, and parameter determination and inverse-problem solution. The publication then examines the isotopic composition of lead in oceanic basalt and its implication to mantle evolution; strontium isotopes in basalts from the Pacific Ocean basin; and trace elements in ocean ridge basalts. Concerns cover variations in ocean ridge basalt chemistry, trace elements in ocean ridge basalts, disequilibrium partial melting, seawater alteration, background for lead isotope tracer studies, and uranium, thorium, and lead concentrations in basalts. The book examines trace elements and anorthosite genesis, lead isotopes in Archaean plutonic rocks, early Archaean rocks and geochemical evolution of the earth's crust, and factors controlling the noble gas abundance patterns of deep-sea basalts. The selection is a valuable source of data for researchers interested in petrology.

Elastic Analysis of Soil-Foundation Interaction

1st Edition
October 22, 2013
A.P.S. Selvadurai
English
eBook
9 7 8 0 4 4 4 5 9 6 2 8 4

Developments in Geotechnical Engineering, Vol. 17: Elastic Analysis of Soil-Foundation Interaction focuses on the analysis of the interaction between structural foundations and supporting soil media. The publication first elaborates on soil-foundation interaction problems; idealized soil response models for the analysis of soil-foundation interaction; and plane-strain analysis of an infinite plate and an infinitely long beam. Discussions focus on three-dimensional effects in the infinite beam problem, elastic models of soil behavior, foundation and interface behavior, and elastic-plastic and time-dependent behavior of soil masses. The manuscript then ponders on the analysis of beams of finite length, axisymmetric three-dimensional problem of an infinite plate, and analysis of finite plates. Concerns cover axisymmetric loading of a circular plate, analysis of rectangular plates, axisymmetric three-dimensional problem of the infinite plate, modifications of the thin plate theory, finite beams on a two-parameter elastic medium, and finite beams on an elastic solid medium. The book tackles the determination of soil parameters, experimental investigations and field studies, as well as experimental investigations and field studies and measurement and interpretation of parameters encountered in the idealized soil models in relation to soil-foundation behavior. The publication is a valuable reference for researchers interested in the elastic analysis of soil-foundation interaction.

Stability of Tidal Inlets

1st Edition
Volume 23
October 22, 2013
P. Bruun
English
eBook
9 7 8 0 4 4 4 5 9 8 2 4 0

Developments in Geotechnical Engineering, 23: Stability of Tidal Inlets: Theory and Engineering focuses on all aspects related to tidal inlets on littoral drift shores where freshwater flow is small or non-existing. The selection first tackles the development and configuration of tidal inlets and inlet hydraulics. Discussions focus on flow dynamics and nearshore transport, combinations of waves and currents, sediment transport and storage in the tidal entrance, offsets of tidal inlets, natural inlet regimen, migration of inlets, and origin of tidal inlets. The manuscript then examines sediment transport in tidal inlets, stability of tidal inlets on littoral drift shores, and design and improvements of coastal inlets. Topics cover ocean entrance, overall stability condition, hydraulic and sedimentary principles, non-scouring channels, transport of sediments in wave agitated waters, and sediment transport by combined wave and current action. The publication explores improvements by structures, including natural bypassing, types of improvement, and bypassing by structures and bypassing plants or arrangements. The selection is a valuable source of data for researchers interested in the stability of tidal inlets.

Trondhjemites, Dacites, and Related Rocks

1st Edition
Volume 6
October 22, 2013
F. Barker
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 8 9 6 0 1

Developments in Petrology, 6: Trondhjemites, Dacites, and Related Rocks focuses on the geology, geochemistry, and petrology of several kinds of trondhjemites, dacites, and genetically related rocks. The selection first elaborates on the definition, environment, and hypotheses of origin of trondhjemite; a review of the mineralogy and chemistry of tertiary-recent dacitic, latitic, rhyolitic, and related salic volcanic rocks; and some trace elements in trondhjemites and their implications to magma genesis and paleotectonic setting. Discussions focus on tectonic environments and trace element patterns, selection and reliability of trace elements, interrelationships between mineralogy and chemistry, and regional variations of dacitic and rhyolitic magmas. The publication then tackles strontium isotope geochemistry of late Archean to late Cretaceous tonalites and trondhjemites; Archean gray gneisses and the origin of the continental crust in West Greenland; and metamorphic development of early Archean tonalitic and trondhjemitic gneisses in Saglek Area, Labrador. The book examines the petrology, geochemistry, and origin of the Sparta quartz dioritetrondhjemite complex; reconnaissance geochemistry of Devonian island-arc volcanic and intrusive rocks in West Shasta District, California; and origin of the Twillingate trondhjemite in North-Central Newfoundland. The selection is highly recommended for geologists and geochemists wanting to explore trondhjemites, dacites, and genetically related rocks.

Crustal Properties Across Passive Margins

1st Edition
October 22, 2013
C. E. Keen
English
eBook
9 7 8 1 4 8 3 2 7 5 4 5 1

Developments in Geotectonics, 15: Crustal Properties across Passive Margins covers the papers presented at the symposium ""Crustal Properties across Passive Margins"", held at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 19-23, 1978. The book focuses on theoretical modelling of the rheological properties in the upper mantle beneath oceans and continents and stratigraphic studies of the sedimentary basins. The selection first offers information on seismic refraction study of the continental edge off the Eastern United States and gravity field of the U.S. Atlantic continental margin. Topics include crustal sections, inner and outer quiet zones, alternative models and complications, gravity models, free-air anomaly map, and the ocean-continent transition zone. The text then takes a look at the geologic history of the passive margin off New England and the Canadian Maritime Provinces and geophysical observations bearing upon the origin of the Newfoundland Ridge. The manuscript elaborates on the age and origin of the deepest correlative structures recognized off Canada and Europe and geophysical transects of the Labrador Sea. Discussions focus on magnetics and gravity, stratigraphic control, consequences regarding subduction or rifting, and deep structures of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland. The selection is a dependable reference for readers interested in crustal properties across passive margins.

Related subjects

Atmospheric science

Computers in geosciences

Earth surface processes

Economic geology

Geochemistry and petrology

Geology

Geophysics

Geotechnical engineering engineering geology

Marine science and technology

Mineral processing

Space and planetary science

Life Sciences

Physical Sciences & Engineering

Social Sciences & Humanities

Health