Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015).

The continuity equation -- Density and gravity -- Numerical solutions of partial differential equations -- Stress and strain -- The momentum equation -- Viscous rheology of rocks -- Numerical solutions of the momentum and continuity equations -- The advection equation marker-in-cell method -- The heat conservation equation -- Numerical solution of the heat conservation equation -- 2-D thermomechanical code structure -- Elasticity and plasticity -- 2-D implementation of visco-elastic-plastic rheology -- The multi-grid method -- Programming of 3-D problems -- Numerical benchmarks -- Design of 2-D numerical geodynamic models.

Numerical modelling of geodynamic processes was predominantly the domain of high-level mathematicians experienced in numerical and computational techniques. Now, for the first time, students and new researchers in the Earth Sciences can learn the basic theory and applications from a single, accessible reference text. Assuming only minimal prerequisite mathematical training (simple linear algebra and derivatives) the author provides a solid grounding in basic mathematical theory and techniques, including continuum mechanics and partial differential equations, before introducing key numerical and modelling methods. 8 well-documented, state-of-the-art visco-elasto-plastic, 2-D models are then presented, which allow robust modelling of key dynamic processes such as subduction, lithospheric extension, collision, slab break-off, intrusion emplacement, mantle convection and planetary core formation. Incorporating 47 practical exercises and 67 MATLAB examples (for which codes are available online at www.cambridge.org/gerya), this textbook provides a user-friendly introduction for graduate courses or self-study, encouraging readers to experiment with geodynamic models.