Customer Reviews

The Solid Earth: An Introduction to Global Geophysics

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

 

 

This is indeed a fine text. I think it is easier to read and work through if one has a strong background in physics (vs. geology) as the methodology is quite similar to the standard approach in physics, i.e. make a conjecture based on some physical intuition, attempt to derive relevant equations from basic principles, and then apply those equations. Geology is typically more descriptive and slightly less rigorous so I would imagine someone approaching this text from a geology dominated background might have a harder time reading it than a person coming to geophysics from physics or math.

This book supplies a lot of essential equations for geophysics but is terribly boring. The problems at the end of the chapter have few examples to offer any help with the problems. This book is overly concerned with derivation and not concerned enough with clear, easy to follow explanations.

This is an outstanding text that is widely respected. Before I developed my own notes, I used it in my classes at the University of Oklahoma. Fowler is very clear in her explanations and coverage. The first review here reads like a disgruntled student and does this fine book a disservice.