Treatise on Geophysics, Volume 8 Core Dynamics

Core Dynamics is an account of the dynamics at the heart of our planet. The range of subjects reflects the breadth and the fast pace of research in core dynamics. Topics include structure and composition of the outer and inner core, energetics of the core, convection, rotation, flow and turbulence in the outer core, solidification of the inner core, dynamo theory and numerical dynamo models, magnetic polarity reversals, laboratory experiments on the core and the geodynamo and the interactions between the core and the other parts of the Earth.

• Self-contained volume starts with an overview of the subject then explores each topic with in depth detail
• Extensive reference lists and cross references with other volumes to facilitate further research
• Full-color figures and tables support the text and aid in understanding
• Content suited for both the expert and non-expert

Peter L. Olson is an adjunct professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of New Mexico. He earned a BA from the University of Colorado and a PhD from the University of California Berkeley. His research focuses on the dynamics of Earth and other planets. He co-authored a book on convection in planetary mantles and served on editorial boards of numerous scientific journals. He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the US National Academy of Sciences, and received the Petrus Peregrinus Medal from the European Geosciences Union and the Inge Lehmann Medal from the American Geophysical Union.