GEOL 710

Geodynamics

Rigorous examination of the processes associated with plate tectonics. Development of the concepts of stress, strain, elasticity, and flexure, and their application to the earths lithosphere. Analysis of heat flow within the earth, including conduction and convection. Introduction to fluid mechanics as it pertains to the driving forces of plate motions. Effects of crustal and mantle rheology on plate motions and convection. Gravity and seismology as tools for understanding plate tectonics. Students should be competent in geophysics and differential equations prior to enrollment

Units: 3.0