Structural Geology

The Mechanics of Deforming Metamorphic Rocks

Bruce E. Hobbs, Alison Ord

• Publisher: Elsevier
• Year: 2014
• Print ISBN:
  9780124078208
• eBook ISBN:
  9780124079335
• Topic: Physical Sciences
• Subtopic: Geology & Earth Sciences

Structural Geology is a groundbreaking reference that introduces you to the concepts of nonlinear solid mechanics and non-equilibrium thermodynamics in metamorphic geology, offering a fresh perspective on rock structure and its potential for new interpretations of geological evolution. This book stands alone in unifying deformation and metamorphism and the development of the mineralogical fabrics and the structures that we see in the field. This reflects the thermodynamics of systems not at equilibrium within the framework of modern nonlinear solid mechanics. The thermodynamic approach enables the various mechanical, thermal, hydrological and chemical processes to be rigorously coupled through the second law of thermodynamics, invariably leading to nonlinear behavior. The book also differs from others in emphasizing the implications of this nonlinear behavior with respect to the development of the diverse, complex, even fractal, range of structures in deformed metamorphic rocks. Building on the fundamentals of structural geology by discussing the nonlinear processes that operate during the deformation and metamorphism of rocks in the Earth's crust, the book's concepts help geoscientists and graduate-level students understand how these processes control or influence the structures and metamorphic fabrics—providing applications in hydrocarbon exploration, ore mineral exploration, and architectural engineering. - Authored by two of the world's foremost experts in structural geology, representing more than 70 years of experience in research and instruction - Nearly 300 figures, illustrations, working examples, and photographs reinforce key concepts and underscore major advances in structural geology

Table of contents

• Cover image
• Title page
• Table of Contents
• Copyright
• Dedication
• Preface
• Acknowledgements
• Chapter 1. Introduction
• Section A. The Mechanics of Deforming Solids: Overview of Section A
• Section B. Processes Involved in the Development of Geological Structures: Overview of Section B
• Epilogue
• Appendix A. Commonly Used Symbols
• Appendix B. Vectors, Tensors and Matrices
• Appendix C. Some Useful Mathematical Concepts and Relations
• References
• Index