Stress and Deformation A Handbook on Tensors in Geology [Hardcover]

Students of geology who may have only a modest background in mathematics need to become familiar with the theories of stress, strain, and other tensor quantities, so that they can follow, and apply to their own research, developments in modern, quantitative geology. This book, based on a course taught by the author at UCLA, can provide the proper introduction. Included throughout the eight chapters are 136 complex problems, advancing from vector algebra in standard and subscript notations, to the mathematical description of finite strain and its compounding and decomposition. Fully worked solutions to the problems make up the largest part of the book. With their help, students can monitor their progress, and geologists will be able to utilize subscript and matrix notations and formulate and solve tensor problems on their own. The book can be successfully used by anyone with some training in calculus and the rudiments of differential equations.

1. Vectors
2. Fields
3. Matter Tensors and Coordinate Transformations
4. Stress
5. Infinitesimal Strain and Rotation
6. Finite Strain
7. Effects of Stress
8. Strain History and Polar Decomposition
9. Summary of Formulae

There is a uniquely useful aspect of Oertel's text that will ensure that most teachers of structural geology and geomechanics will want a copy and perhaps even make it required reading for their courses: the problems. --Eos

The text is excellent for someone with a good math background who wishes to learn continuum mechanics in a rigorous manner or for someone who needs a refresher course. . . .The text is clearly written and concisely reviews matrices and tensors. --GSA Today

This remarkable book, well written and organized, should have broad appeal for geoscientists. . . .What will impress readers is the clarity achieved in presenting difficult mathematical concepts. . . . This book is one of the best written on vector and tensl,