Quantitative Modeling of Earth Surface Processes
Quantitative Modeling of Earth Surface Processes
£76.99
GBPThis textbook describes some of the most effective and straightforward quantitative techniques for modeling Earth surface processes. By emphasizing a core set of equations and solution techniques, the book presents state-of-the-art models currently employed in Earth surface process research, as well as a set of simple but practical research tools. Detailed case studies demonstrate application of the methods to a wide variety of processes including hillslope, fluvial, aeolian, glacial, tectonic, and climatic systems. Exercises at the end of each chapter begin with simple calculations and then progress to more sophisticated problems that require computer programming. All the necessary computer codes are available online at www.cambridge.org/9780521855976. Assuming some knowledge of calculus and basic programming experience, this quantitative textbook is designed for advanced geomorphology courses and as a reference book for professional researchers in Earth and planetary science looking for a quantitative approach to Earth surface processes.
- Takes a strongly quantitative approach, which is not presented in other textbooks on the topic
- Contains end-of-chapter review questions, allowing the reader to monitor their understanding of the material presented
- Includes programming code so the reader can implement the methods in their own work
Reviews & endorsements
'Revolutionary! A new powerful instrument for the study of the Earth's surface that will change the intellectual landscape of this discipline. Rigorous and engaging, this book will train a new generation of scientists in the tools and techniques of quantitative surface processes. Indispensable for anyone interested in process geomorphology from a modern point of view.' Sergio Fagherazzi, Boston University
'… the strength of Pelletier's book is on demonstrating practical techniques to solve classic geomorphic problems. … The style of writing is at times almost avuncular, guiding the reader through a series of computationally efficient techniques to solve basic problems. … There are typically about five exercises at the end of each chapter to test one's knowledge of the programming techniques discussed. The questions are practical, interesting and well chosen, and answers build up incrementally. … a vital resource for any student or researcher interested in earth surface processes.' Area
'Jon Pelletier has authored a surprisingly detailed textbook which describes some of the most important, or, as he writes in the introduction, most effective and straightforward quantitative techniques for modeling Earth surface processes … the book provides its own refreshing trajectory … This particular path through the different realms of geomorphology provides the reader [with] a direct route through sophisticated ways [of] modeling Earth surface processes.' Zeitschrift für Geomorphologie
Product details
August 2008Hardback
9780521855976
304 pages
252 × 192 × 18 mm
0.84kg
184 b/w illus. 12 colour illus.
Available
Table of Contents
- 1. Preface
- 2. Introduction
- 3. The diffusion equation
- 4. Flow routing
- 5. The advection/wave equation
- 6. Flexural isostasy
- 7. Non-Newtonian flow equations
- 8. Instabilities
- 9. Stochastic processes
- Appendix 1. Codes for solving the diffusion equation
- Appendix 2. Codes for flow routing
- Appendix 3. Codes for solving the advection equation
- Appendix 4. Codes for solving the flexure equation
- Appendix 5. Codes for modeling non-Newtonian flows
- Appendix 6. Codes for modeling instabilities
- Appendix 7. Codes for modeling stochastic processes
- References
- Index.
