Fundamentals of Geophysics

The branch of natural science which deals with the physical processes and properties of Earth and its surrounding environment is known as geophysics. It focuses on the study of gravitational and magnetic fields, Earth’s shape and its internal structure, dynamics of plate tectonics and rock formation. It is also used to meet societal needs such as environmental protection, mineral resources and mitigation of natural hazards. This field uses concepts from physics to study the internal structure of the earth. Gravity, electromagnetic waves, radioactivity, mineral physics and heat flow are some of the areas of study within this discipline. It uses a wide variety of methods such as electrical method, gravity and magnetic surveys, and seismic and magneto-telluric surveys. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover new techniques and the applications of this field. It presents the complex subject of geophysics in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. This book is an essential guide for both academicians and those who wish to pursue this discipline further.