Geophysics, geologic structures and tectonics / Геофизика, геологические структуры и тектоника

Often times a student is introduced to geophysics as a rather specialized branch of geology, employed only for prospecting or in graduate research. Geophysics courses are usually taken later in a college schedule after adequate preparation in physics and mathematics. Because it is a broad, interdisciplinary area of physical science, one can obtain a background in geophysics by taking selected studies in several different but related fields. However, it is difficult for a student to learn something of the growing expanse of geophysics and geology early in his study program unless general aspects of these subjects are brought forth in one of the first courses. This book is intended to present new, introductory material in geophysics and structural geology so that the scope of these fields will become apparent.

Structural geology is depending more and more on the interpretative but quantitative physical techniques which provide information about earth processes. The presence of soil, rock or ice cover, or ocean depths may thus require the use of geophysics. While some form of geologic mapping is an absolute necessity for determining the structural situation and tectonic history of an area, there are methods of surveying besides the ever-important surface geological observations. These less direct geophysical measurements for determining subsurface characteristics become particularly powerful when several techniques are used. If this volume stimulates and gives reason for a person to do better in applied mathematics and physics or attracts people in these fields to the fascinating study of earth science, it will have achieved its purpose. <...>