Geodynamics of the Lithosphere

This book is an introduction to the quantitative treatment of geological problems. It was originally written as a guide for field geologists who wish to quantitatively understand or test their tectonic models. However, the book is an introduction to geodynamics for anyone in the earth sciences. The book provides an understanding of basic concepts of map projections, plate tectonics, heat flow, isostasy, geomorphology, kinematics stress, strain and rheology. In later chapters these concepts are integrated to examine a variety of geodymaic problems: chapter 6 focuses on problems relevant to structural geology, and chapter 7 looks at problems relevant to the field of petrology. In a detailed appendix, a wide range of numerical methods are introduced, such as the finite difference method, Fourier series or the least squares method. Lists of useful mathematical constants, internet addresses and references are also included in the book.

1. Introduction.- 2. Plate Tectonics.- 3. Heat and Temperature.- 4. Elevation and Shape.- 5. Force and Rheology.- 6. Dynamic Processes.- 7. P-T-t-D-Paths.- A. Mathematical Tools.- A.1 What is a Differential Equation?.- A.1.1 Terminology Used in Differential Calculus.- A.2 The Finite Difference Method.- A.2.1 Grids and Boundary Conditions.- A.2.2 Stability and Accuracy.- A.2.3 Implicit and Explicit Finite Difference Methods.- A.2.4 Approximation of the Transport Equation.- A.2.5 Dealing with Irregular Grid Boundaries.- A.2.6 Recommended Reading.- A.3 Scalars, Vectors and Tensors.- A.4 An Example for Using Fourier Series.- A.5 Selected Numerical Tricks.- A.5.1 Integrating Differential Equations.- A.5.2 Analytically Unsolvable Equations.- A.5.3 The Least Squares Method.- A.5.4 Basic Statistical Parameters.- A.6 Problems.- B. Maths Refresher.- C. Symbols and Units.- D. Answers to Problems.- E. Internet Addresses.- References.