Plate Tectonics: Continental Drift and Mountain Building

This textbook provides an explanation of the formation of mountains, the paleogeography of the Earth, and the concept of plate tectonics, which explains the shapes of continents and the distribution of volcanos and earthquake-prone areas. It is a valuable resource for students, professionals, and interested laymen in geology, geophysics, geography, geosciences, and other related fields.

Format: Hardback
Length: 245 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive textbook delves into the intricate processes that shape mountains, shedding light on their formation and the age distribution of these geological wonders. It offers a detailed reconstruction of Earth's paleogeography, explaining why the shapes of South America and Africa align so perfectly. Furthermore, it unravels the mysteries behind the Pacific's volcanic activity and earthquake-prone regions, while the edges of the Atlantic remain relatively peaceful.

In its revised edition, this textbook serves as a valuable resource for students pursuing geology, geophysics, geography, geosciences, general natural sciences, and professionals alike. It provides a thorough exploration of the geodynamic processes underlying continental drift and plate tectonics, offering a deeper understanding of our planet's dynamic geological history.

The book is organized into chapters, each dedicated to a specific aspect of mountain formation, paleogeography, and plate tectonics. It begins with an introduction to the fundamental principles of these subjects, providing a foundation for the subsequent chapters.

The subsequent chapters delve into the intricate processes that shape mountains, including volcanic activity, tectonic plate movements, and the formation of mountain ranges. The book employs detailed illustrations, diagrams, and maps to enhance the reader's understanding of these complex phenomena.

Furthermore, the textbook explores the age distribution of mountains, discussing the processes that contribute to the formation of young and old mountain ranges. It discusses the role of erosion, weathering, and tectonic activity in the uplift and erosion of mountains, as well as the formation of metamorphic and igneous rocks.

In addition to its focus on mountains, the textbook also delves into the broader implications of plate tectonics. It discusses the impact of plate movements on the Earth's climate, weather patterns, and the distribution of natural resources. It explores the formation of ocean basins, the formation of mountain belts, and the evolution of continents over millions of years.

Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary research in understanding the Earth's geological processes. They cite numerous examples of collaborative efforts between geologists, geophysicists, and other scientists to unravel the mysteries of our planet's history.

This textbook is an essential resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in the Earth's geological history and the processes that shape our planet. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the field, covering a wide range of topics and presenting them in a clear and accessible manner. Whether you are a student seeking to deepen your understanding of the subject or a professional looking to expand your knowledge, this textbook is an invaluable tool.

Weight: 887g
Dimension: 279 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030889982
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2022