Numerical Modelling in Applied Geodynamics

This volume provides the mathematical basis and methods to analyze geophysics problems for the global geodynamic models of the Earth and of planets. It presents the computational methods, based on variational formulations of model problems, in all areas of geosciences. The book details all the mathematical techniques and methods necessary to recognize geodynamic processes in the Earth's and planet's interiors and to analyze geodynamic processes in the lithosphere with relation to earthquake mechanism and seismic hazard. Areas addressed include: tectonic plates, seismic waves propagation, geothermal and electromagnetic fields, global geodynamic, geomagnetic and gravity models. The emphasis is placed on the variational approach to the problems studied, which involves using methods of numerical analyses, while preserving the physical nature of the problems.