Physics For Geologists

A compact introduction to those aspects and elements of physics that the geologist needs to grasp in order to pursue the subject effectively. This work should serve as a supplementary text to students of geology, and possibly to geomorphologists.

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All geological processes demand of geologists a broad understanding of science. This text aims to help geologists understand the basic physics behind both common geological processes and the analytical techniques used in geology. It assumes that the reader - whether student, researcher or professional - has forgotten most of the physics learnt at school.; The book starts with an elementary discussion of dimensions, SI units, and some crucial distinctions and definitions. The outlines of dimensional analysis are included because it is a technique that may be found to have a broader use in geology. Force is then considered against the background of Kepler and Newton, followed by optics, atomic structure, electromagnetic radiation, heat and heat flow, electricity and magnetism, stress and strain, sea waves, acoustics, fluids and fluid flow.; The treatment presented will not make a physicist of a geologist, but should help a geologist understand some of the physics involved in geology. Optics, for example, is an essential element of mineralogy, but the laws of reflection and refraction apply equally to seismic waves. The final chapter discusses some of the dangers of mathematical statistics, particularly the seduction of linear regression analysis and the use of calculators and computers without sufficient thought.; "Physics for geologists" is designed for any geologist or Earth scientist concerned to ensure that their grasp of the physics essential to geological understanding is well founded.