![]() All these equations are derived from first principles in the geological contexts in which they are used. Many geological problems involving heat conduction and solid and fluid mechanics require solutions of such classic partial differential equations as Laplace’s equation, Poisson’s equation, the biharmonic equation, and the diffusion equation. However, solving partial differential equations is an essential part of this textbook. We do not believe that tensor notation is necessary for the understanding of these subjects or for most applications to geological problems. For example, our treatment of elasticity and fluid mechanics avoids the introduction or use of tensors. ![]() We have not introduced mathematical concepts unless they are essential to the understanding of physical principles. The level of the students ranged from advanced undergraduate to graduate.In all cases we present the material with a minimum of mathematical complexity. We believe that the appropriate title for this material is geodynamicsThe contents of this textbook evolved from a series of courses given at Cornell University and UCLA to students with a wide range of backgrounds in geology, geophysics, physics, mathematics, chemistry, and engineerng. This textbook deals with the fundamental physical pro cesses necessary for an understanding of plate tectonics and a variety of geological phenomena.
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