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Books in Earth and planetary sciences

Elsevier's Earth and Planetary Sciences collection brings together pioneering research on the complexities of our planet and beyond. Covering topics from Earth's structural dynamics and ecosystems to planetary exploration, these titles support advancements in geoscience, environmental science, and space studies, offering essential insights for researchers, professionals, and students.

  • Elastic Analysis of Soil-Foundation Interaction

    • 1st Edition
    • A.P.S. Selvadurai
    • English
    Developments in Geotechnical Engineering, Vol. 17: Elastic Analysis of Soil-Foundation Interaction focuses on the analysis of the interaction between structural foundations and supporting soil media. The publication first elaborates on soil-foundation interaction problems; idealized soil response models for the analysis of soil-foundation interaction; and plane-strain analysis of an infinite plate and an infinitely long beam. Discussions focus on three-dimensional effects in the infinite beam problem, elastic models of soil behavior, foundation and interface behavior, and elastic-plastic and time-dependent behavior of soil masses. The manuscript then ponders on the analysis of beams of finite length, axisymmetric three-dimensional problem of an infinite plate, and analysis of finite plates. Concerns cover axisymmetric loading of a circular plate, analysis of rectangular plates, axisymmetric three-dimensional problem of the infinite plate, modifications of the thin plate theory, finite beams on a two-parameter elastic medium, and finite beams on an elastic solid medium. The book tackles the determination of soil parameters, experimental investigations and field studies, as well as experimental investigations and field studies and measurement and interpretation of parameters encountered in the idealized soil models in relation to soil-foundation behavior. The publication is a valuable reference for researchers interested in the elastic analysis of soil-foundation interaction.
  • Seismic Effects on Structures

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 67
    • E. Juhásová
    • English
    This monograph deals with the problem of dynamic behaviour and seismic response of structures which are designed and constructed in seismic regions. Extensive attention is given to description of measuring methods, methods of evaluation of results and determination of dynamic properties of structures. The questions of linear and non-linear seismic response are solved taking into account the peculiarities of stiffness and damping and the demands of proper seismic design and the protecting of structures against unfavourable seismic effects. There is detailed analysis of torsional sesimic effects on structures with asymmetrical disposition in plan, of the influence of higher axial forces on the seismic response and of the problems of soil-structure interaction. The experimental results are extensively documented, with graphs, tables, photographs and a keyword index.This volume will interest structural engineers, engineers-designers, geophysicists, mechanical and geotechnical engineers. It is intended to serve both readers already acquainted with problems of earthquake engineering and beginners in this field.
  • Soil Physics

    Selected Topics
    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 25
    • A. Kézdi
    • English
    Soil Physics: Selected Topics covers the results in the research field of soil physics, soil mechanics, and the behavior of real soils. This book is divided into six chapters and begins with an introduction to the study of the physical characteristics of soil and the complexity of superstructure of soil mechanics. The next chapter deals with the distribution of coarse grains according to their volume and the distribution of pore sizes in fine-grained materials. This chapter also describes the properties of granular mixtures and the compatibility of transition soils. The discussion then shifts to investigation of soil strength, particularly the strength of sand and transition soils, the tensile and shear strengths of cohesive soils, and brittle failure of soils. The remaining chapters consider the classification of soil phase movement phenomena. This book is intended primarily for practicing civil engineers.
  • Stress in Subsoil and Methods of Final Settlement Calculation

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 18
    • J. Feda
    • English
    Developments in Geotechnical Engineering, Volume 18: Stress in Subsoil and Methods of Final Settlement Calculation reviews the method of settlement calculations based on stresses in the subsoil. This book is divided into three chapters. Chapter 1 deals with in situ stresses in the subsoil, while Chapter 2 focuses on the state of stress produced in the subsoil by external loads. The last chapter discusses the methods of calculating the final settlement, including remarks on the selection of deformation parameters. This publication also discusses the horizontal geostatic stress, surface loading of a half-space, method of oedometric compression, and finite element and allied methods. This volume is recommended for researchers and specialists of disciplines related to geotechnical engineering.
  • Stability of Tidal Inlets

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 23
    • P. Bruun
    • English
    Developments in Geotechnical Engineering, 23: Stability of Tidal Inlets: Theory and Engineering focuses on all aspects related to tidal inlets on littoral drift shores where freshwater flow is small or non-existing. The selection first tackles the development and configuration of tidal inlets and inlet hydraulics. Discussions focus on flow dynamics and nearshore transport, combinations of waves and currents, sediment transport and storage in the tidal entrance, offsets of tidal inlets, natural inlet regimen, migration of inlets, and origin of tidal inlets. The manuscript then examines sediment transport in tidal inlets, stability of tidal inlets on littoral drift shores, and design and improvements of coastal inlets. Topics cover ocean entrance, overall stability condition, hydraulic and sedimentary principles, non-scouring channels, transport of sediments in wave agitated waters, and sediment transport by combined wave and current action. The publication explores improvements by structures, including natural bypassing, types of improvement, and bypassing by structures and bypassing plants or arrangements. The selection is a valuable source of data for researchers interested in the stability of tidal inlets.
  • Continental Drift

    • 1st Edition
    • Volume 3
    • S. K. Runcorn
    • English
    Continental Drift brings together within one volume a discussion of the geophysical evidence relating to horizontal movements in the earth's crust in its widest sense. This is not the time for a reappraisal of the work of German meteorologist Alfred Wegener, but it is hoped that this volume will stimulate a serious interest in a subject formerly considered by many earth scientists as already closed. The book contains 12 chapters and begins with a discussion of paleomagnetic evidence for continental drift and its geophysical cause. This is followed by separate chapters on of paleoclimatic evidence on the paleomagnetic latitudes given by paleomagnetism; studies of earthquake mechanism; movements on major transcurrent faults; and magnetic evidence for horizontal displacements in the floor of the Pacific Ocean. Subsequent chapters deal with thermal convection in the earth's mantle; the theory of convection in spherical shells and its application to the problem of thermal convection in the earth's mantle; mountain-building hypotheses; and investigations of the deep-sea floor.
  • A Geography of the Soviet Union

    Pergamon Oxford Geographies
    • 3rd Edition
    • John C. Dewdney
    • W. B. Fisher
    • English
    A Geography of the Soviet Union, Third Edition presents the significant geographical elements of the contemporary U.S.S.R. This book explores the human, economic, and political conditions and problems posed by the various geographical features. Organized into 11 chapters, this edition begins with an overview of the comparison of the relative sizes of U.S.A, U.K., and U.S.S.R. This text then provides a detailed account of the main features of the geological structure of the Soviet Union. Other chapters consider the latitude distribution of the land area of the U.S.S.R. that is extremely significant in the effect it has on climatic conditions. This book discusses as well the historical geography of Soviet Union, tracing the stages by which so large an area has been brought within the frontiers of a single political unit. This book is intended to be suitable for fifth and sixth level pupils in school as well as for first-year university students.
  • Natural Therapy

    A Manual of Physiotherapeutics and Climatology
    • 1st Edition
    • Thomas D. Luke + 1 more
    • English
    Natural Therapy: A Manual of Physiotherapeutics and Climatology discusses natural ways of healing and treating certain diseases and disorders. The authors discuss the use of water in bath-treatments as used by John Smedley, Winternitz, or through methods known as "Kaltwasser Kuranstalten," or "Kneipp cure." The book explains the general principles of hydrotherapy or the systematic application of water at different temperatures in varying ways to the body surface. Water can have a therapeutic effect due to its temperature, volume, mechanical means, and chemical forms. The authors also discuss taking baths including general precautions (after physical exertion), techniques (arm, foot bath), use of drip sheet, and douches. Water in Nauheim baths are either naturally or artificial charged, in varying degrees, with carbonic acid gas, and mixed with small amounts of chloride and sulphate of soda. The bath is good for the circulatory system. The authors discuss other natural methods of treatment such as steam bath, massages, hydro-electric baths, and special diet cures. This book can be helpful for care givers, health workers, physical therapists, practioners of alternative or holistic medicine, and general readers who have an interest in natural treatment and healing.
  • Recent Progress in Surface Science

    Volume 1
    • 1st Edition
    • J. F. Danielli + 2 more
    • English
    Recent Progress in Surface Science, Volume 1 reviews significant advances made in surface science during the period 1956-1961, as well as problems that are still unsolved. Topics covered range from surface viscosity and electrode processes to corrosion of metals, surface-active substances, and foams and free liquid films. The electrical double layer and electrokinetic phenomena are also examined, along with facilitated diffusion and the chemistry of the semiconductor surface. Comprised of 11 chapters, this volume first deals with surface viscosity and general principles and applications of surface rheology, as well as the viscosity of various types of monolayers. The reader is then introduced to foams and free liquid films, with emphasis on the theory of foaming; the electrical double layer and electrokinetic phenomena; and electrode processes. Subsequent chapters explore the corrosion of metals; surface-active substances; surface chemistry of compound and organic semiconductors; and the mechanism of facilitated diffusion. The book also considers the morphology and dynamic aspects of cell contacts before concluding with an analysis of the formation and properties of bimolecular lipid membranes. This book will be of interest to chemists and physicists.
  • Arid Land Irrigation in Developing Countries

    Environmental Problems and Effects
    • 1st Edition
    • E. Barton Worthington
    • English
    Arid Land Irrigation in Developing Countries: Environmental Problems and Effects covers the proceedings of the International Symposium on Arid Land Irrigation, held in Alexandria, Egypt on February 16-21 1976. This book is organized into eight sections encompassing 46 chapters. The opening section deals first with the benefits of arid land irrigation and the effective use of water in irrigated agriculture. This section also tackles the public health and socio-economic impacts of irrigation, as well as the planning and managing of irrigation and drainage systems. The next section discusses the results of some case studies on arid land irrigation, such as in districts in Mexico, Iran, and Egypt. Other sections explore the influence of irrigation on changes in hydrological processes and cycle, soil fertility, water quality, and biological balances. The closing sections consider the human problems in irrigation areas, with an emphasis on the problem of schistosomiasis and malaria. These sections also look into the viewpoints of specialist agencies of the United Nations on arid land irrigation. This book will be of value to agriculturists, economists, and researchers.