Physical Processes in Earth and Environmental Sciences

by Mike R. Leeder (University of East Anglia); Marta Pé; rez-Arlucea (Universidad de Vigo)

• ISBN13: 9781444311112
• ISBN10: 1444311115
• Format: eBook
• Copyright: 2009-04-01
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Summary

This book provides a sound introduction to the basic physical processes that dominate the workings of the Earth, its atmosphere and hydrosphere. It systematically introduces the physical processes involved in the Earth's systems without assuming an advanced physics or mathematical background. Offers an integrated approach to the study of earth, marine and atmospheric environmental sciences, reflecting current trends in undergraduate courses. Natural examples of physical processes, rather than abstract physics and maths, are used throughout to illustrate the scientific principles involved.Artwork from the book is available to instructors online at www.blackwellpublishing.com/leeder.

Table of Contents

Preface

Acknowledgments

Planet Earth and Earth Systems

Comparative Planetology

Unique Earth

Earth Systems Snapshots

Measuring Earth

Whole Earth

Subtle Interactive Earth

Further reading

Matters of State and Motion

Matters of State

Thermal Matters

Quantity of Matter

Matter in General Motion: Kinematics

Continuity: Mass Conservation in Fluids

Further Reading

Forces and Dynamics

Quantity of Motion: Momentum

Acceleration

Force, Work, Energy and Power

Thermal Energy and Mechanical Work

Hydrostatic Pressure Force

Buoyancy Force

Radial Force

Rotational Force, Vorticity and Coriolis Acceleration

Viscosity

Viscous Force

Turbulent Friction Force

Overall Forces of Fluid Motion

Solid Stress

Solid Strain

Rheology

Further Rading

Flow, Deformation, and Transport

The Oigin of large-scale Fuid Fow

Fundamental types of Fuid Fow

Fluid boundary Layers

Laminar Flow

Turbulent Flow

Stratified Fows

Particle Settling

Particle Transport by Flows

Waves and Liquids

Transport by Waves

Granular Gravity Flow

Turbidity Flow

Flow through Porous Solids and Granular Solids

Fractures

Solid Failure and Faults

Solid Bending, Buckling, and Folds

Seismic Waves

Molecules in Motion: Kinetic Theory, Heat Conduction, and Diffusion

Heat Transport by Radiation

Heat Transport by Convection

Further Reading

Inner Earth Processes and Systems

Melting Magmas and Volcanoes

Plate Tectonics

Further Reading

Outer Earth Processes and Systems

Atmosphere

Atmosphere-ocean Interface

Atmosphere-land Interface

Deep Ocean

Shallow Ocean

Ocean-land Interface: Coasts

Land surface

Further Reading

Appendix: Brief Mathematical Refresher or Study Guide

Cookies

Index

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.