Customer Reviews

Geophysical Inverse Theory

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Although this textbook contains some very useful material, I've found that it really isn't adequate as a textbook for a first course on inverse problems for graduate students in the earth sciences.

Students in my class found the presentation too theoretical, and couldn't relate the material in the book to their own research projects. In particular, many of them found that the book made use of too much advanced mathematics without adequate explanation. Many of the exercises in the book are extremely challenging, but there aren't enough relatively simple exercises to help students build confidence in their understanding of the material. In order to be prepared for this text, students need to have a strong background in linear algebra, numerical computing, and some understanding of basic ideas in functional analysis.

On the other hand, I've found this book to be a useful reference in my own research.

This book presents inverse theory in gradual steps with practical problems presented at each level. Chapter 1 provides a good theoretical basis for what follows so that the book is (reasonably) self-contained.

What I like most is the way the author reaches into the heart of the problem at each level before going into the nitty gritty math (which is well presented too). The philosophical discussions (especially in chapter 4) are particularly enjoyable.

This book is an outstanding reference. Some of the finer points of geophysical inversion theory are extremely well mapped out with mathematics. While intended to not require experience in the field, the exercises in this book might be difficult for an undergraduate to learn inverse theory with. I would recommend this book highly to add to the collection of inverse references for any serious practitioner of the subject.