The boundary element method (BEM) divides only the boundaries of the region under investigation into elements, so it diminishes the dimensionality of the problem, e.g., the 3-D problem becomes a 2-D problem and the 2-D problem becomes a 1-D problem. This simplifies inputting the model into a computer and greatly reduces the number of algebraic equations. The advantage of this is even more evident for some 3-D and infinite regional problems that are often encountered in geophysics. Originally published in China, this book is likely the most comprehensive work on the subject of solving applied geophysical problems, and it is well organized. Basic mathematical principles are introduced in chapter 1, followed by a general yet thorough discussion of the BEM in chapter 2. Chapters 3 through 7 introduce the applications of BEM to solve problems of potential-field continuation and transformation gravity and magnetic anomalies modeling, electric resistivity and induced polarization field modeling, magnetotelluric modeling, and various seismic modeling problems. Finally, in chapter 8, a brief discussion is provided on how to incorporate the BEM and the finite-element method (FEM) together. In each chapter, detailed, practical examples are given, and comparisons to both analytic and other numerical solutions are presented. This is an excellent book for numerically oriented geophysicists and for use as a textbook in numerical analysis classes.
--This text refers to an alternate
Paperback
edition.
Also available:
Insights and Methods for 4D Reservoir Characterization - ISBN 1560801360
Covariance Analysis for Seismic Signal Processing (Geophysical Development Series, V. 8) - ISBN 156080081X
