Lowrie William. Fundamentals of Geophysics

2nd edition. — Cambridge University Press, 2007. — 393 p. — ISBN 0521675960.This unique textbook presents a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of geophysics. Unlike most geophysics textbooks, it combines both the applied and theoretical aspects to the subject. The author explains complex geophysical concepts using abundant diagrams, a simplified mathematical treatment, and easy-to-follow equations. After placing the Earth in the context of the solar system, he describes each major branch of geophysics: gravitation, seismology, dating, thermal and electrical properties, geomagnetism, paleomagnetism and geodynamics. Each chapter begins with a summary of the basic physical principles, and a brief account of each topic's historical evolution. The book will satisfy the needs of intermediate-level earth science students from a variety of backgrounds, while at the same time preparing geophysics majors for continued study at a higher level.Acknowledgements
The Earth as a planet
The solar system
The dynamic Earth
Suggestions for further reading
Review questions
Exercises
Gravity, the figure of the Earth and geodynamics
The Earth’s size and shape
Gravitation
The Earth’s rotation
The Earth’s figure and gravity
Gravity anomalies
Interpretation of gravity anomalies
Isostasy
Rheology
Suggestions for further reading
Review questions
Exercises
Seismology and the internal structure of the EarthElasticity theory
Seismic waves
The seismograph
Earthquake seismology
Seismic wave propagation
Internal structure of the Earth
Suggestions for further reading
Review questions
Exercises
Earth’s age, thermal and electrical properties
Geochronology
The Earth’s heat
Geoelectricity
Suggestions for further reading
Review questions
Exercises
Geomagnetism and paleomagnetism
Historical introduction
The physics of magnetism
Rock magnetism
Geomagnetism
Magnetic surveying
Paleomagnetism
Geomagnetic polarity
Suggestions for further reading
Review questions
Exercises
Appendix A The three-dimensional wave equations
Appendix B Cooling of a semi-infinite half-space