http://www.freebookspot.in Latest books added today en-us http://www.freebookspot.in/logorss.jpg http://www.freebookspot.in 160 43 http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=47403 "Global Connections" introduces middle school readers to the issues that affect today's global society. Tying together geography, history, science, social studies, and economics, these engaging titles examine key topics and their importance to the United States and to the world. Each title provides a balanced view of how the policies and actions of a particular group or region affect others, including such complex topics as world hunger, human rights, and terrorism. These timely books will be valuable resources for those interested in learning about the issues in the news or assigned reports on current events. Full-color maps and illustrations, plus informative charts, tables, and graphs, enhance each title. Special interactive 'Making Connections' boxed insets encourage students to engage in critical thinking about these complex issues. Titles in this new series were developed with the national social studies curriculum standards in mind. Climates have changed throughout Earth's history and will continue to change indefinitely. While some changes are brief, lasting only a few decades, others can plunge much of the planet into an icy wasteland or a steaming tropical jungle for hundreds, thousands, or even millions of years. Many factors contribute to both short- and long-term changes within the atmosphere, and scientists continue to study the agents that impact the changing conditions of Earth's climate. Changing Climates helps readers gain a better understanding of clim Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=47256 The study of the Earth’s deep interior may be loosely defined as the study of those parts of the Earth that lie more than a thousand kilometres below the surface. These regions are obscured from direct view, but nevertheless a wealth of information about the deep interior has accumulated. Seismology, geomagnetism, the monitoring of the Earth’s rotation, and accurate measurements of the gravity field have all played a role in this development. This observational knowledge has been supplemented by experiments, some conducted in extreme conditions of pressure and temperature. Theoreticians are also involved in unravelling the mysteries of the Earth’s deep interior, both in building numerical models and in studying high-pressure physics. All this activity has brought together a multidisciplinary team of scientists, which was formalized into the SEDI (Study of the Earth’s Deep Interior) organization in 1987. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=47046 Interdisciplinarity and Climate Change is a major new book addressing one of the most challenging questions of our time. Its unique standpoint is based on the recognition that effective and coherent interdisciplinarity is necessary to deal with the issue of climate change, and the multitude of linked phenomena which both constitute and connect to it. In the opening chapter, Roy Bhaskar makes use of the extensive resources of critical realism to articulate a comprehensive framework for multidisciplinarity, interdisciplinarity, transdisciplinarity and cross-disciplinary understanding, one which duly takes account of ontological as well as epistemological considerations. Many of the subsequent chapters seek to show how this general approach can be used to make intellectual sense of the complex phenomena in and around the issue of climate change, including our response to it. Among the issues discussed, in a number of graphic and compelling studies, by a range of distinguished contributors, both activists and scholars, are: The dangers of reducing all environmental, energy and climate gas issues to questions of carbon dioxide emissions The problems of integrating natural and social scientific work and the perils of monodisciplinary tunnel vision The consequences of the neglect of issues of consumption in climate policy The desirability of a care-based ethics and of the integration of cultural considerations into climate policy The problem of relating theoreti Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=46734 This is a relatively short book, but packed with information on how the age and formation of solar system is revealed by meteorites. I was particularly interested in how much information can be gleaned from the tiny condrite grains. The isotopic anomalies in meteorites is evidence of where and how certain constituents were formed. The book is very well illustrated and informative. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=46566 MATLAB® is used in a wide range of applications in geosciences, such as image processing in remote sensing, generation and processing of digital elevation models and the analysis of time series. This book introduces methods of data analysis in geosciences using MATLAB such as basic statistics for univariate, bivariate and multivariate datasets, jackknife and bootstrap resampling schemes, processing of digital elevation models, gridding and contouring, geostatistics and kriging, processing and georeferencing of satellite images, digitizing from the screen, linear and nonlinear time-series analysis and the application of linear time-invariant and adaptive filters. The revised and updated Second Edition includes new subchapters on windowed Blackman-Tukey, Lomb-Scargle and Wavelet powerspectral analysis, statistical analysis of point distributions and digital elevation models, and a full new chapter on the statistical analysis of directional data. The text includes a brief description of each method and numerous examples demonstrating how MATLAB can be used on data sets from earth sciences. All MATLAB recipes can be easily modified in order to analyse the reader's own data sets. The book comes with a CD containing exemplary data sets and a digital version of the MATLAB recipes. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=46121 Presenting a rigorous treatment of the physical and mechanical basis for the modelling of sedimentary basins, this book supplies geoscientists with practical tools for creating their own models. It begins with a thorough grounding in properties of porous media, linear elasticity, continuum mechanics and rock compressibility. Chapters on heat flow, subsidence, rheology, flexure and gravity consider sedimentary basins in the context of the Earth's lithosphere, and the book concludes with coverage of pore space cementation, compaction and fluid flow . The volume introduces basic, state-of-the-art models and demonstrates how to reproduce results using tools like MATLAB and Octave. Main equations are derived from first principles, and their basic solutions obtained and then applied. Separate notes sections supply more technical details, and the text is illustrated throughout with real-world examples, applications and test exercises. This is an accessible introduction to quantitative modelling of basins for graduate students, researchers and oil industry professionals. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=45887 The challenges before the Agricultural Scientists of our country today are much more complex than even before. The first issue and the cause of some major problems in the future - the depletion of the ozone layer, threatens the inhabitants of Earth due to the advent of harmful ultraviolet radiation. The second issue - global warming and the plight of Antarctica, involves the melting of polar ice caps threatening our coastal regions in the future. Forecast of increase in average temperatures, higher sea levels and changes in rainfall patterns will all have a negative impact on crop production, especially in the tropics.nbsp; Food production has to benbsp; increased to 240 m.t. within the next five years. To achieve the massive target, very little scope and possibility exist in respect of horizontal expansion. Crop production and production technologies are of almost important for successful and economic cultivation of field crops. Under these circumstances, important and relevant informations are collected and compiled in a book form titled ``A Textbook of Agronomy``. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=45886 River Morphology synthesizes the contributions made by geologists, geomorphologists, geographers, hydraulic engineers and hydrologists and presents a coherent text which takes a balanced view about formation on alluvial rivers and their hydraulics, and analysis of their response to natural and man-made disturbances. The text covers discussion about history of fluvial hydraulics and geomorphology, drainage basin characteristics, soil erosion, fluvial morphology, principles of sediment transport and hydraulics of alluvial and gravel-bed rivers, river bed and channel changes, palaeo-hydraulics, analytical and numerical modeling of alluvial stream transients, morphology of some Indian rivers, rivers and environment, and data needs for morphological studies. Inclusion of two chapters on modeling offers valuable tools for quantitative analysis of a number of problems in alluvial stream transients. River Morphology should be useful to undergraduate and graduate students in geology and engineering, to those interested in rivers and involved in planning and management of rivers. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=45555 These Proceedings include the written version of papers presented at the IAG International Symposium on "Gravity, Geoid and Earth Observation 2008". The Symposium was held in Chania, Crete, Greece, 23-27 June 2008 and organized by the Laboratory of Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Greece. The meeting was arranged by the International Association of Geodesy and in particular by the IAG Commission 2: Gravity Field. The symposium aimed at bringing together geodesists and geophysicists working in the general areas of gravity, geoid, geodynamics and Earth observation. Besides covering the traditional research areas, special attention was paid to the use of geodetic methods for: Earth observation, environmental monitoring, Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS), Earth Gravity Models (e.g., EGM08), geodynamics studies, dedicated gravity satellite missions (i.e., GOCE), airborne gravity surveys, Geodesy and geodynamics in polar regions, and the integration of geodetic and geophysical information. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=45360 MATLAB® is used in a wide range of applications in geosciences, such as image processing in remote sensing, generation and processing of digital elevation models and the analysis of time series. This book introduces methods of data analysis in geosciences using MATLAB such as basic statistics for univariate, bivariate and multivariate datasets, jackknife and bootstrap resampling schemes, processing of digital elevation models, gridding and contouring, geostatistics and kriging, processing and georeferencing of satellite images, digitizing from the screen, linear and nonlinear time-series analysis and the application of linear time-invariant and adaptive filters. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=45175 Sediment Cascades: An Integrated Approach provides a comprehensive overview that addresses the transport of sediment through the landscape. Suitable for academic researchers, industry practitioners, research students and advanced level undergraduates, seeking detailed knowledge and an up-to-date review of the recent research literature. The emphasis is on contemporary sediment system dynamics with relevance both to landscape management and landform development. Sediment Cascades: An Integrated Approach begins with an explanation of the need for an integrated approach to sediment delivery systems and introduces the main themes of sediment production, delivery, storage and transfer. Further chapters then focus on specific environments from mountains, through floodplains, to estuaries and the continental shelf. Focuses on contemporary sediment system dynamics and current research Covers a sequence of environments from steep mountains to the continental shelf Highlights the continuity of the subject by linking each component area with its adjacent elements Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=45056 This volume, written by the Hazards Science Team of the International Year of Planet Earth, brings together some of the most influential international scientists dealing with Natural Hazards and Society’s response to natural hazards. It recognises that hazards, like poverty, will always be with us but that concerted and organised societal response can prevent a hazard becoming a disaster. By bringing together geoscientists, social scientists and those concerned with the administration of international science and international disaster reduction, this book details the state-of-the-science as well as the state-of-the-response in natural hazards. The contents of this volume fall into four parts: Part 1 deals with the IYPE Hazards Theme and its relation to society, emphasising that implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action requires a strong emphasis on human societies, human security, and that this can be achieved only through appropriate communication. Part 2 focuses on the response of the international scientific community. Part 3 concentrates on geophysical risk and sustainability by considering climate and climate change as well as the theory and the praxis involved in hazards, their prevention and mitigation. Part 4 relates to the observation and assessment of geo-hazards and risk. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=44626 Might “global warming” be the source of the energy to fuel the next cloudy and snowy glacial period—an eventual severe global cooling? Ecologist and engineer John D. Hamaker was convinced of it, having studied the current state of the Biosphere and the 25 glacial-interglacial cycles of the last 2.5 million years. It led him and co-author Don Weaver to publish The Survival of Civilization in 1982, to warn the world of this danger and to offer fundamental solutions to the complex problems involved in the regeneration of a late-interglacial demineralized soil and Biosphere. Hamaker saw that this “Interglacial Soil Demineralization and Retrogressive Vegetational Succession” required humanity to reverse the ongoing soil depletion practices of most agriculture and forestry, and to wisely and generously replenish soils worldwide, restoring them to high mineral and fertility levels such as were known to produce the awesome forests and vegetation of the Climatic Optimum ca. 8000-5000 yrs. before present. This can be done not only by returning all available organic matter back to the soil, as organic farming recommends, but also through soil remineralization with complete mineral-spectrum rock mixtures such as found in natural glacial and river gravel mixes, finely ground into gravel dust. Single rock types like basaltic rock can be very beneficial for remineralization, but Hamaker urged us to use broad mixtures when practical to best copy Nature’s method of creating Earth’s most fe Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=44564 An unbiased and comprehensive overview, based on the findings of the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). Using no jargon, it looks at tackling and adapting to man-made climate change, and works through the often confusing potential solutions. Bert Metz is the former co-chair of the IPCC, at the center of international climate change negotiations. His insider expertise provides a cutting edge assessment of issues at the top of the political agenda. He leads the reader succinctly through ambitious mitigation scenarios, in combination with adapting our future societies to different climate conditions and the potential costs of these measures. Illustrations and extensive boxed examples motivate students to engage with this essential global debate, and questions for each chapter are available online for course instructors. Minimal technical language also makes this book valuable to anyone with an interest in action to combat climate change. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=44180 Wie entstehen Gebirge, Wusten, Gletscher oder Vulkane? Welche Naturkrafte haben den beeindruckenden Grand Canyon geschaffen? So vielfaltig wie das Gesicht der Erde sind die Antworten in diesem gro?artig illustrierten Buch. Von der Stellung der Erde im Sonnensystem bis hin zum Einwirken des Menschen auf das Landschaftsbild erklart es die Entstehung der Oberflachenformen. Einzelbildfolgen veranschaulichen zahlreiche Prozesse wie z. B. die Entstehung eines Erdbebens. Neben prazisen, verstandlichen Texten sorgen viele Fotos, Graphiken und Karten fur faszinierenden Lesestoff. Ein ausfuhrliches Glossar rundet das Buch ab. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=44011 An inside tour of the incredible—and probably dangerous—plans to counteract the effects of climate change through experiments that range from the plausible to the fantastic David Battisti had arrived in Cambridge expecting a bloodbath. So had many of the other scientists who had joined him for an invitation-only workshop on climate science in 2007, with geoengineering at the top of the agenda. We can't take deliberately altering the atmosphere seriously, he thought, because there’s no way we'll ever know enough to control it. But by the second day, with bad climate news piling on bad climate news, he was having second thoughts. When the scientists voted in a straw poll on whether to support geoengineering research, Battisti, filled with fear about the future, voted in favor. While the pernicious effects of global warming are clear, efforts to reduce the carbon emissions that cause it have fallen far short of what’s needed. Some scientists have started exploring more direct and radical ways to cool the planet, such as: •Pouring reflective pollution into the upper atmosphere •Making clouds brighter •Growing enormous blooms of algae in the ocean Schemes that were science fiction just a few years ago have become earnest plans being studied by alarmed scientists, determined to avoid a climate catastrophe. In Hack the Planet, Science magazine reporter Eli Kintisch looks more closely at this array of ideas and characters, asking if these risky schemes will work, and j Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=43783 Volcanoes are a vital presence in our world, and play a key role in maintaining the human eco-environment through soil enrichment and atmospheric inputs. They are also hazardous features, whose eruptions have not only killed many hundreds of thousands of people in recorded history, but have also greatly influenced both the development of human culture and the evolution of human species. Volcanoes commonly form beautiful landscapes, and form the principal features of national parks all over the world, serving as magnets that attract millions of visitors each year. Hundreds of millions of other people live on or in the shadows of active volcanoes. Most of these people have only a shallow, passing interest in the volcanoes they see, but there is a certain large, enthusiastic cohort of these people whose fascination with volcanoes leads them to travel to see volcanoes close-up, and to seek authoritative volcanological information. The study of volcanoes and volcanic activity is an essential component of all introductory geology courses. Although the typical exposure to volcanology is superficial in most introductory courses, advanced undergraduate courses and specialized graduate courses require authoritative textbooks on volcanology – either for reference, or as the backbone of focused courses and seminars. We believe our book would best serve college-level students poised to enter the earth sciences professionally, and will also serve as an important reference for interested la Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=43398 Geologist Jan Zalasiewicz takes the reader on a fascinating trip one hundred million years into the future--long after the human race becomes extinct--to explore what will remain of our brief but dramatic sojourn on Earth. He describes how alien geologists in the far future might piece together the history of the planet, and slowly decipher the history of humanity from the traces we will leave impressed in the rock strata. What story will the rocks tell of us? What kind of fossils will humans leave behind? What will happen to cities, cars, and plastic cups? The trail leads finally to the bones of the inhabitants of petrified cities that have slept deep underground for many millions of years. As thought-provoking as it is engaging, this book simultaneously explains the geological mechanisms that shape our planet, illuminates the various ingenious ways in which geologists and paleontologist work, and offers a final perspective on humanity and what we will leave behind. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=43339 Remote sensing is used in some way by all earth and atmospheric scientists. This book provides a unique resource to all aspects of remote sensing for both the expert and nonexpert. Organized as a dictionary, it contains over 700 alphabetically-arranged and cross-referenced entries on how remote sensing works, what kinds of data are available, and the large number of satellites and instruments from which the information is obtained. As well as short technical definitions, the book also includes longer essays and reviews to give a complete overview of the subject. It will be essential for researchers and research managers at all levels using spaceborne remote sensing methods to obtain information about the earth's land, sea, ice and atmosphere. It will also serve as a valuable addition to existing textbooks for undergraduate and graduate students in geography, environmental and earth science courses that include an element of remote sensing. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=42864 The book presents modern and efficient methods for solving Geodetic and Geoinformatics algebraic problems illustrated with Mathematica using computer algebra techniques of Ring, Polynomials, Groebner basis, Resultants including Dixon resultant, Gauss-Jacobi combinatorial and Procrustes algorithms as well as homotopy methods. These problems are traditionally solved by approximate methods. This book presents alternative algebraic techniques based on computer algebra tools. This new approach meets such modern challenges as resection by laser techniques, solution of orientation in Robotics, transformation and bundle block adjustment in Geoinformatics, densification of Engineering networks, analytical solution for GPS-meteorology and many other problems. For Mathematicians, the book pres some practical examples of application of abstract algebra and multidimensional scaling. The accompanying CD-ROM contains Mathematica notebooks with computational illustrations and application packages to solve for real life problems in geodesy and geoinformatics as resection, intersection, orientation problems. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=42794 The Great Global Warming Blunder unveils new evidence from major scientific findings that explode the conventional wisdom on climate change and reshape the global warming debate as we know it. Roy W. Spencer, a former senior NASA climatologist, reveals how climate researchers have mistaken cause and effect when analyzing cloud behavior and have been duped by Mother Nature into believing the Earth’s climate system is far more sensitive to human activities and carbon dioxide than it really is. In fact, Spencer presents astonishing new evidence that recent warming is not the fault of humans, but the result of chaotic, internal natural cycles that have been causing periods of warming and cooling for millennia. More carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is not necessarily to be feared; The Great Global Warming Blunder explains that burning of fossil fuels may actually be beneficial for life on Earth. As group-think behavior and misguided global warming policy proposals threaten the lives of millions of the world’s poorest, most vulnerable citizens, The Great Global Warming Blunder is a scintillating expose and much-needed call for debate. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=42490 Why has science so dramatically altered how we live and how we think about ourselves? With characteristic energy and verve, Professor Steven L. Goldman declares, "One is tempted to speak of scientific discoveries as being the source of science's power to be a driver of social change that scientists have been discovering new truths about nature, and that the change follows from that. But I argue that it is scientific ideas that are responsible for this change. Ideas are the source of science's power not discoveries." And what is the greatest scientific idea of all? For Professor Goldman, that is surely the very idea of science, for as he puts it, "The idea of science itself is an idea that had to be invented." In Great Scientific Ideas That Changed the World, you will explore ideas that when society has been willing to pursue them have helped form the foundation of modern life. You'll interpret the term "scientific idea" broadly, so as to include ideas that made science possible at all, as well as ideas that make science immensely powerful. You will discover there is no sharp distinction between ideas that are classified as scientific and those that are classified as philosophical or mathematical, or even between scientific ideas and political, religious, or aesthetic ideas. Alfred North Whitehead, for example, famously linked the emergence of modern science in the Christian West to the belief in a single, law-observing Creator of the universe. The New Dot-Com World Ne Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=42481 The assessment of risks posed by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, tsunamis or cyclones, may not reflect the full range or magnitude of events possible. As human populations grow, especially in hazard-prone areas, methods for accurately assessing natural hazard risks are becoming increasingly important. Jonathan Nott describes the many methods used to reconstruct such hazards from natural long-term records. He demonstrates how long-term records are essential in gaining a realistic understanding of the variability of natural hazards, and how short-term historical records can often misrepresent likely risks. • Explains mechanisms that cause extreme events and discusses their prehistoric records • Describes how to reconstruct long-term records of natural hazards in order to make accurate risk assessments • Demonstrates that natural hazards can follow cycles over time and do not occur randomly Contents 1. Introduction; 2. Droughts; 3. Floods; 4. Tropical cyclones; 5. Tsunamis; 6. Earthquakes; 7. Landslides; 8. Volcanoes; 9. Asteroids; 10. Extreme events over time; Appendix; References; Index. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=42232 Geotechnical failures, specially the catastrophic ones, are a stimulus to improve current understanding of phenomena and procedures and tools for analysis and prediction. This unconventional approach to geomechanics is the essence of this book. In general, soil mechanics and geotechnical textbooks describe first the concepts and theoretical developments and then apply them to interpret or solve a particular applications. This book follows a different course. The case (a failure) is first described and then an explanation is sought. This requires a set of steps which can be summarized as follows: Identify the nature of the problem, develop a dedicated and specific formulation of the case, based on established basic concepts. In general, no single existing theory or procedure is available to solve the case at hand, provide a solution within an acceptable degree of complexity, extract the fundamental aspects of the problem and highlight its relevance. The cases selected have been grouped into three main topics: Landslides, Embankments and Dams and Dynamics of Failures. Cases selected (Vaiont, Aznalcollar, Brattas-St. Moritz) are unique and illustrate a number of relevant and to some extent controversial issues which are of wide interest, without claiming exhaustive treatment of the subject. The book teaches how to build the necessary models to understand the failures. Well established soil mechanics concepts are the necessary background. But the cases analyzed require i Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=41885 While numerous books have been written on earthquakes, earthquake resistance design, and seismic analysis and design of structures, none have been tailored for advanced students and practitioners, and those who would like to have most of the important aspects of seismic analysis in one place. With this book, readers will gain proficiencies in the following: fundamentals of seismology that all structural engineers must know; various forms of seismic inputs; different types of seismic analysis like, time and frequency domain analyses, spectral analysis of structures for random ground motion, response spectrum method of analysis; equivalent lateral load analysis as given in earthquake codes; inelastic response analysis and the concept of ductility; ground response analysis and seismic soil structure interaction; seismic reliability analysis of structures; and control of seismic response of structures. * Provides comprehensive coverage, from seismology to seismic control * Contains useful empirical equations often required in the seismic analysis of structures * Outlines explicit steps for seismic analysis of MDOF systems with multi support excitations * Works through solved problems to illustrate different concepts * Makes use of MATLAB, SAP2000 and ABAQUAS in solving example problems of the book * Provides numerous exercise problems to aid understanding of the subject As one of the first books to present such a comprehensive treatment of the topic, Seismic Analysis o Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=41505 This book "Applied Hydrometeorology" is intended to serve as a text for senior undergraduate or beginning undergraduate courses in hydrometeorology, and will also be of value to practicing engineers and hydrologists engaged in the planning, design, development, and management of water resources. The subject matter has been developed in a logical and coherent manner and covers a wide spectrum of topics and provides a discussion of significant developments. Also emphasis is placed on the applied aspects of hydro meteorological research and practice worldwide. Numerous worked examples are provided in each chapter to enable the user to gain comprehension and understanding of the subject of hydrometeorology. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=40894 This second edition of UXL Encyclopedia of Biomes offers readers comprehensive, easy-to-use, and current information on twelve of Earth’s major biomes and their many component ecosystems. Arranged alphabetically across three volumes, each biome chapter includes: an overview; a description of how the biomes are formed; their climate; elevation; growing season; plants, animals, and endangered species; food webs; human culture; and economy. The information presented may be used in a variety of subject areas, such as biology, geography, anthropology, and current events. Each chapter includes a ‘‘spotlight’’ feature focusing on specific geographical areas related to the biome being discussed and concludes with a section composed of books, periodicals, Internet addresses, and environmental organizations for readers to conduct more extensive research. Each volume of UXL Encyclopedia of Biomes includes color maps and at least 60 photos and illustrations pertaining to each biome, while sidebar boxes highlight fascinating facts and related information. All three volumes include a glossary, a bibliography, and a subject index covering all the subjects discussed in UXL Encyclopedia of Biomes. Volume 1 (Coniferous Forest, Continental Margin, Deciduous Forest, Desert) Volume 2 (Grassland, Lake and Pond, Ocean, Rain Forest) Volume 3 (River and Stream, Seashore, Tundra, Wetland) Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=40098 As the primary source of food and fiber and major interface with the environment, soil is the reservoir on which most life on earth depends. Soil science has accomplished much, providing us with a basic understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological properties and processes essential to ecosystem integrity and function. This knowledge has helped us to understand the role of soils in enhancing human health, not only through food production, but also in controlling the transport and risk posed by toxic substances in the environment. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=40089 On a quiet winter morning in january 2006, a giant, sleeping volcano on an unassuming, uninhabited island in Alaska awoke from a 20-year nap. And it woke up with a bang. At about 4:44 A.M., the volcano known as Mount St. Augustine erupted, sending a cloud of steam and ash 45,000 feet (13,716 meters) into the air. Airplane pilots flying in the area quickly reported the eruption, and the Federal Aviation Administration temporarily restricted flights within 5 miles (8 kilometers) of the rumbling mountain. At the same time, the United States Geological Survey classified Augustine as an alert level red volcano, the highest level of concern. Everyone started to pay attention to Augustine. The volcano continued to erupt for many days. Eventually, it sent a steam cloud to the southeast, over a 45-mile-long (75- kilometer-long) area. Amazingly, no one was hurt. To start with, no one lived on Augustine’s remote island located in Alaska’s Cook Inlet; the steam cloud never reached people living in the large, nearby city of Anchorage; nor did it clog the engines of unsuspecting airplanes passing by. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=40044 This book deals with earthquake engineering including seismology, tsunamis, ground motion characteristics, soil and foundation dynamics, wave propagation, probabilistic and deterministic methods of dynamic analysis, experimental behaviour of structures, and methods for earthquake resistant design and retrofit of structures that are germane to practising engineers. It includes seismic code requirements and system identification, as well as supplemental energy dissipation, base isolation, and structural control emphasizing earthquake engineering. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=39846 “On the 31st of August, 1846, I left Concord in Massachusetts for Bangor and the backwoods of Maine”—thus begins The Maine Woods, the evocative story of Thoreau’s journeys through a familiar yet untouched land. As he explores Mt. Katahdin (an Indian word meaning “highest land”), Lake Chesuncook, the Allagash River, and the East Branch of the Penobscot, Thoreau muses on his own vulnerability and the humility engendered by his solitude in the wilderness. Throughout Thoreau invokes the forest of Maine—the mountains, waterways, fauna, flora, and the people—in his singular style. Echoing Walden, Thoreau’s passionate outcry against the degradation of the environment in The Maine Woods will resonate strongly today. This fully annotated gift edition of The Maine Woods makes a wonderful companion volume to Walden: A Fully Annotated Edition and I to Myself: An Annotated Selection from the Journal of Henry D. Thoreau. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=38570 Fire Ecology of Tropical Ecosystems gives an extensive explanation of historic and current fire situations in the tropics, describing the fire ecology of tropical ecosystems from around the globe. Eighteen groups of leading researchers explain the many different aspects and roles of fire in tropical ecosystems. Regional chapters address a set of common subjects including the causes of fire, typical fire behavior, and elements of the fire regime. In addition, they study the impacts of human land use, landscape fragmentation and climate change on the fire environment and the challenges of fire management in these ecosystems. The common set of topics provides consistency among the chapters and facilitates comprehensive understanding of fire’s place in tropical ecology. This cohesive book covers unique aspects of fire in each ecosystem and includes a discussion of common elements to enable comparisons and syntheses of fire effects in disparate tropical ecosystems. Current scientific literature is too fragmented: it hampers the understanding of tropical fire ecology and degrades all global studies of land cover change and global carbon emissions. Fire Ecology of Tropical Ecosystems fills a large void in our current understanding of how fire affects terrestrial biota. The book opens with a general explanation of fire in the tropics, giving the examples of Oazaca, Mexico in 1998 and Roraima, Brazil in 1997-1998. It follows with the concepts and principles of wildland fire, i Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=38119 In Applied Geostatistics the authors demonstrate how simple statistical methods can be used to analyse earth science data. In clear language, they explain how various forms of the estimation method called kriging can be employed for specific problems. A case study of a simulated deposit is the focus for the book. This model helps the student develop an understanding of how statistical tools work, serving as a tutorial to guide readers through their first independent geostatistical study. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=37423 With the increasing need to take an holistic view of landslide hazard and risk, this book overviews the concept of risk research and addresses the sociological and psychological issues resulting from landslides. Its integrated approach offers understanding and ability for concerned organisations, landowners, land managers, insurance companies and researchers to develop risk management solutions. Global case studies illustrate a variety of integrated approaches, and a concluding section provides specifications and contexts for the next generation of process models. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=37153 Much of the recent progress in the solid earth sciences is based on interpretation of a range of geophysical and geological observations in terms of the properties and deformation of earth materials. This graduate textbook presents a comprehensive, unified treatment of the materials science of deformation as applied to solid earth geophysics and geology. The deformation of Earth materials is presented in a systematic way covering elastic, anelastic and viscous deformation. Advanced discussions on current debates are also included to bring readers to the cutting-edge of science in this interdisciplinary area. This textbook is ideal for graduate courses on the rheology and dynamics of solid Earth, and includes review questions with solutions so readers can monitor their understanding of the material presented. It is also a much-needed reference for geoscientists in many fields including geology, geophysics, geochemistry, materials science, mineralogy and ceramics. A comprehensive, unified treatment of the materials science of deformation as applied to solid earth geophysics and geology, this textbook is ideal for graduate courses on the rheology and dynamics of solid earth. It is also a much-needed reference for geoscientists in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, materials science, mineralogy and ceramics. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=36918 Roughly a billion people around the world continue to live in state of chronic hunger and food insecurity. Unfortunately, efforts to improve their livelihoods must now unfold in the context of a rapidly changing climate, in which warming temperatures and changing rainfall regimes could threaten the basic productivity of the agricultural systems on which most of the world’s poor directly depend. But whether climate change represents a minor impediment or an existential threat to development is an area of substantial controversy, with different conclusions wrought from different methodologies and based on different data. This book aims to resolve some of the controversy by exploring and comparing the different methodologies and data that scientists use to understand climate’s effects on food security. In explains the nature of the climate threat, the ways in which crops and farmers might respond, and the potential role for public and private investment to help agriculture adapt to a warmer world. This broader understanding should prove useful to both scientists charged with quantifying climate threats, and policy-makers responsible for crucial decisions about how to respond. The book is especially suitable as a companion to an interdisciplinary undergraduate or graduate level class. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=36712 Describes what tsunamis are, how they form, their causes, famous tsunamis of the past, and how scientists study and predict them. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=36522 "Marine Science: An Illustrated Guide to Science" is one of eight volumes in "Facts On File's" new "Science Visual Resources" set. Containing seven sections, a comprehensive glossary, a Web site guide, and an index, "Marine Science" is an ideal learning tool for students and teachers of science. Full-color diagrams, graphs, charts, and maps on every page illustrate the essential elements of the subject, while parallel text provides key definitions and step-by-step explanations. The seven sections include: "Geography of the Oceans" - provides an overview of the physical dimensions of the bodies of water that cover 70 percent of Earth; "Geology of the Oceans" - examines the geological processes that have shaped Earth's surface and features that are unique to the marine environment. It covers the regions of intense volcanic activity that lie deep beneath the sea, as well as the shifting boundaries between water and land; "Chemistry of the Oceans" - explores the nature of seawater with the global cycles that carry vital elements, such as carbon and nitrogen, from the oceans to the atmosphere to the land, and back to the ocean again; and "Ocean-Atmosphere System" - details the engines that drive global climate. The cycling of heat from warmer to cooler latitudes, the impact of Earth's rotation on ocean currents, and the daily ebb and flow of the tides are covered in this section. It also includes: "Biology of the Oceans" - is an overview of the wealth of plant and animal life that Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34767 Since the year 2000 the ESA Cluster mission has been investigating the small-scale structures and processes of the Earth's plasma environment, such as those involved in the interaction between the solar wind and the magnetospheric plasma, in global magnetotail dynamics, in cross-tail currents, and in the formation and dynamics of the neutral line and of plasmoids. This book contains presentations made at the 15th Cluster workshop held in March 2008. It also presents several articles about the Cluster Active Archive and its datasets, a few overview papers on the Cluster mission, and articles reporting on scientific findings on the solar wind, the magnetosheath, the magnetopause and the magnetotail. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34766 Filling an important gap in the geophysical literature at specialist level, this monograph is the only up-to-date title to provide a link between the Earth's rotation and its atmo- and hydrosphere, including the ice masses. Starting with the Earth's motions, the text goes on to look at irregularities and the effect of atmospheric processes on the Earth's spin. Tides and seasons occupy the following sections before a discussion of the Earth-ocean-atmosphere system and the mechanical action of the atmosphere on the Earth's rotation. The whole is rounded off by an index of abbreviations and appendices with sections on related physics for better readability, plus a comprehensive bibliography for further reading. A must for geophysicists, oceanographers, glaciologists, climatologists and meteorologists alike. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34765 The following notes have been the basis for an introductory course in atmospheric dynamics which has been taught at Harvard and M.I.T. for the past seven years. The book is intended as a text for first year graduate students in the atmospheric sciences. Although the material in the book is self contained, a familiarity with differential equations is assumed; some background in fluid mechanics is helpful. Contents Preface 1. Introductory remarks 2. Simple energy balance climate models 3. Effect of transport on composition 4. 'Statics' of a rotating system 5. Observed atmospheric structures 6. Equations of motion 7. Symmetric circulation models 8. Internal gravity waves, 1 9. Atmospheric tides 10. Internal gravity waves, 2 11. Rissby waves and the Gulf stream; 12. Vorticity and quasi-geostrophy; 13. The generation of eddies by instability, 1 14. Instability 2: energetics and climate implications Postscripts Appendix - Gravity wave program References. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34764 While ocean waves are the most visible example of oceanic mixing processes, this macroscale mixing process represents but one end of the spectrum of mixing processes operating in the ocean. At the scale of a typical phytoplanktoic diatom or larval fish inhabiting these seas, the most important mixing processes occur on the molecular scale - at the scale of turbulence. Physical-biological interactions at this scale are of paramount importance to the productivity of the seas (fisheries) and the heat balance that controls large scale ocean climate phenomena such as El Nino and tornadoes. This book grew out of the need for a comprehensive treatment of the diverse elements of geophysical fluid flow at the microscale. Kantha and Clayson have arranged a logial exposition of the various mixing processes operating within and between the oceans and its boundaries with the atmosphere and ocean floor. The authors' intent is to develop a volume that would provide a comprehensive treatment of the fundamental elements of ocean mixing so that students, academics, and professional fluid dynamicists and oceanographers can access this essential information from one source. This volume will serve as both a valuable reference tool for mathematically inclined limnologists, oceanographers and fluid modelers. * Simple models of oceanic and atmospheric boundary layers are discussed * Comprehensive and up-to-date review * Useful for graduate level course * Essential for modeling the oceans and t Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34763 This book focuses on the dynamics of clouds and of precipitating mesoscale meteorological systems. Clouds and precipitating mesoscale systems represent some of the most important and scientifically exciting weather systems in the world. These are the systems that produce torrential rains, severe winds including downburst and tornadoes, hail, thunder and lightning, and major snow storms. Forecasting such storms represents a major challenge since they are too small to be adequately resolved by conventional observing networks and numerical prediction models. Key Features * Key Highlights of This Text * Provides a complete treatment of clouds integrating the analysis of air motions with cloud structure, microphysics, and precipitation mechanics * Describes and explains the basic types of clouds and cloud systems that occur in the atmosphere-fog, stratus, stratocumulus, altocumulus, altostratus, cirrus, thunderstorms, tornadoes, waterspouts, orographically induced clouds, mesoscale convection complexes, hurricanes, fronts, and extratropical cyclones * Presents a photographic guide, presented in the first chapter, linking the examination of each type of cloud with an image to enhance visual retention and understanding * Summarizes the fundamentals, both observational and theoretical, of atmospheric dynamics, thermodynamics, cloud microphysics, and radar meteorology, allowing each type of cloud to be examined in depth * Integrates the latest field observations, numerical mode Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34654 This introduction to topics in geophysical fluid dynamics covers the theory of large-scale ocean circulation, geostrophic turbulence, and Hamiltonian fluid dynamics. This book offers an elementary introduction to several topics in theoretical geophysical fluid dynamics, including some topics not usually considered to fall under that heading and omitting many that are. The book is aimed at first-year graduate students in physical oceanography, but others should find it useful too. There are no exercises, so this is more of a monograph than a textbook. Contents: 1 Fundamentals 2 Introduction to Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 3 Noninertial Theory of Ocean Circulation 4 Vorticity and Turbulence 5 Statistical Fluid Dynamics 6 Geostrophic Turbulence 7 Hamiltonian Fluid Dynamics References Index Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34653 Based on data from an experiment which ran for ten years, this book summarizes the results of the Atmospheric Physics Department of the St. Petersburg University and the Main Geophysical Observatory. The processed data now forms a rich dataset of spectral values of radiative characteristics under different atmospheric conditions. The analysis of this database clearly shows that the solar radiative absorption in a dusty and cloudy atmosphere is significantly higher than assumed to date. Both graduate students of atmospheric sciences as well as scientists and researchers in the field of meteorology and climatology will find a wealth of new data and information in this monograph. Table of Contents 1 Solar radiation in the atmosphere 1 2 Theoretical base of solar irradiance and radiance calculation in the earth atmosphere 45 3 Spectral measurements of solar irradiance and radiance in clear and cloudy atmospheres 77 4 The problem of retrieving atmospheric parameters from radiative observations 133 5 Determination of parameters of the atmosphere and the surface in a clear atmosphere 167 6 Analytical method of inverse problem solution for cloudy atmospheres 205 7 Analysis of radiative observations in cloudy atmosphere237 8Conclusion 259 App. A Tables of radiative characteristics and optical parameters of the atmosphere 261 App. B Formulas derivation 291 Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34651 The book summarizes international progress over the last few decades in upper atmosphere airglow research. Measurement methods, theoretical concepts and empirical models of a wide spectrum of upper atmospheric emissions and their variability are considered. The book contains a detailed bibliography of studies related to the upper atmosphere airglow and a lot of useful information on emission characteristics and its formation processes. The book is of interest to scientists working in the field of aeronomy, physics of the upper atmosphere of the Earth as well as the other planets, and also for experts interested in applied aspects of the Earth"s upper atmospheric emissions. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34650 This Second Edition of An Introduction to Atmospheric Radiation has been extensively revised to address the fundamental study and quantitative measurement of the interactions of solar and terrestrial radiation with molecules, aerosols, and cloud particles in planetary atmospheres. It contains 70% new material, much of it stemming from the investigation of the atmospheric greenhouse effects of external radiative perturbations in climate systems, and the development of methodologies for inferring atmospheric and surface parameters by means of remote sensing. Liou's comprehensive treatment of the fundamentals of atmospheric radiation was developed for students, academics, and researchers in atmospheric sciences, remote sensing, and climate modeling. Key Features * Balanced treatment of fundamentals and applications * Includes over 170 illustrations to complement the concise description of each subject * Numerous examples and hands-on exercises at the end of each chapter Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34649 This combination of text and reference book describes the physical, plasma and chemical processes controlling the behavior of ionospheres, upper atmospheres and exospheres. It summarizes the structure, chemistry, dynamics and energetics of the terrestrial ionosphere and other solar system bodies, and discusses the processes, mechanisms and transport equations for solving fundamental research problems. This second edition incorporates new results, model developments and interpretations from the last 10 years. It includes the latest material on neutral atmospheres; the terrestrial ionosphere at low, middle and high latitudes; and planetary atmospheres and ionospheres, where results from recent space missions have yielded fresh data. Appendices outline physical constants, mathematical formulas, transport coefficients, and other important parameters for ionospheric calculations. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=34502 It is widely accepted in the scientific community that climate change is a reality, and is happening now rapidly. In this second edition, leading climate researcher Barrie Pittock revisits the effects that global warming is having on our planet, in light of new scientific research. Pittock presents all sides of the arguments about the science and possible remedies. He argues that "uncertainty is inevitable, but risk is certain". Uncertainty is not a reason for doing nothing (or merely advocating more research) but rather to evaluate and manage risk. This new edition takes into account the latest analyses of climate change, such as alarming observations regarding Arctic sea ice, the recently published IPCC Synthesis Report, and the policies of the new Australian Government and how they affect the implementation of climate change initiatives. It also incudes extensive endnotes with links to ongoing and updated information, as well as extra figures. While the message is clear that climate change is here (and in some areas, might be too far gone), there is still hope for the future, and the ideas presented in this book will inspire people to take action. New material focuses on massive investments in large-scale renewables, such as those being taken up in California, as well as small scale action in individual homes and businesses driven by both regulation and market mechanisms. Climate Change: The Science, Impacts and Solutions is an important reference for stude Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33856 The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is 344 400 square kilometres in size and is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. This comprehensive guide describes the organisms and ecosystems of the Great Barrier Reef, as well as the biological, chemical and physical processes that influence them. Contemporary pressing issues such as climate change, coral bleaching, coral disease and the challenges of coral reef fisheries are also discussed. In addition, the book includes a field guide that will help people to identify the common animals and plants on the reef, then to delve into the book to learn more about the roles the biota play. Beautifully illustrated and with contributions from thirty-three international experts, The Great Barrier Reef is a must-read for the interested reef tourist, student, researcher and manager. While it has an Australian focus, it can equally be used as a baseline text for most Indo-Pacific coral reefs. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33833 Bushfire authorities urge people to be ready for summer with a safety plan. The encyclopedic Essential Bushfire Safety Tips has everything you need to know to make your bushfire plan with confidence. Essential Bushfire Safety Tips is a condensed version of Joan Webster’s acclaimed The Complete Bushfire Safety Book, specially written for those who prefer the convenience of categorized dot points set out in an easy-find, easy to understand way. Bushfire tragedies need not happen. Homes need not be destroyed. Lives need not be endangered. Post-bushfire scientific research has found that 90 per cent of homes can be saved from even the fiercest wildfires when defended by one or more people over the age of 10 who know what to do. In the widespread conflagrations we now experience, householders cannot expect a fire unit to be available on each doorstep. Bushfire safety is a personal responsibility. The purpose of Essential Bushfire Safety Tips is to enable and empower this process. Essential Bushfire Safety Tips contains over 2,000 authenticated tips, covering every known bushfire danger and safety factor. Its pocket format makes it ideal to keep in the kitchen drawer, car glove compartment or purse. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33665 In 2001 a panel representing virtually all the world's governments and climate scientists announced that they had reached a consensus: the world was warming at a rate without precedent during at least the last ten millennia, and that warming was caused by the buildup of greenhouse gases from human activity. The consensus itself was at least a century in the making. The story of how scientists reached their conclusion--by way of unexpected twists and turns and in the face of formidable intellectual, financial, and political obstacles--is told for the first time in The Discovery of Global Warming. Spencer R. Weart lucidly explains the emerging science, introduces us to the major players, and shows us how the Earth's irreducibly complicated climate system was mirrored by the global scientific community that studied it. Unlike familiar tales of Science Triumphant, this book portrays scientists working on bits and pieces of a topic so complex that they could never achieve full certainty--yet so important to human survival that provisional answers were essential. Weart unsparingly depicts the conflicts and mistakes, and how they sometimes led to fruitful results. His book reminds us that scientists do not work in isolation, but interact in crucial ways with the political system and with the general public. The book not only reveals the history of global warming, but also analyzes the nature of modern scientific work as it confronts the most difficult questions about the Earth's Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33389 Conservation refers to the careful and controlled use of natural resources for the purpose of extending the time they are available as well as retaining biodiversity. Conservation does not prevent the loss of plants, trees, land, water, or habitat; it simply slows the rate of degradation of these things. This new book explores aspects of conservation, particularly the conservation of plant life upon which ecosystems are built. Though students with an interest in ecology assume conservation is a worthwhile endeavor in sustaining the environment, conservation has had a rocky history. Conservation provides an overview of the successes and failures in striving to protect living natural resources that predate humans on their home continents. Chapters include: Forests and the Water Cycle; Analyzing Threats to Forests; Tropical Forest Preservation; Temperate and Boreal Forest Preservation; Desertification; Saving Riparian Habitats; and, Reducing Wood Waste. Chapters include: Forests and the Water Cycle Analyzing Threats to Forests Tropical Forest Preservation Temperate and Boreal Forest Preservation Desertification Saving Riparian Habitats Reducing Wood Waste. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33241 Clean air is essential to life and good health. Several important pollutants are produced by fossil fuel combustion and emitted directly into the atmosphere, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and hydrocarbons. In addition, total suspended particulates contribute to air pollution, and nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons combine in the atmosphere to form tropospheric ozone, the major constituent of smog. With an examination of fossil fuels as energy sources and the world population's reliance on them, "Fossil Fuels and Pollution" outlines the connection of fossil fuels to global warming. This new full-color book explores the properties of greenhouse gases, the nature and causes of the emissions, who the largest contributors are, and the important health issues and considerations associated with them. The concepts of energy efficiency and fuel economy are also examined as well as agricultural greenhouse gases and pollution. "Fossil Fuels and Pollution" ends with a close look at fuel technology and the "green technology" that has been put into place for tomorrow's cars. The chapters include: Energy, Fossil Fuels, and Global Warming; Greenhouse Gases, Health, and the Environment; Evolution Since the Industrial Revolution; Global Warming and Pollution: Buildings and Homes; Global Warming and Pollution: Green Transportation; Global Warming and Pollution: Cities and Industry; Global Warming: Agriculture and the Impacts Today; Fuel Technology; Green Technology: T Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33240 Julie Kerr Casper, "Global Warming Cycles: Ice Ages and Glacial Retreat" Facts on File | 2009 | ISBN: 0816072620 | 212 pages | PDF | 11,2 MB Earth has always exhibited patterns of heating up and cooling down. At some points in time, many areas of Earth were shrouded in blankets of ice, with ice caps and glaciers dominating the landscape. Certain areas on Earth have been covered with prominent glaciers multiple times in the past for millions of years. Since the last ice age, which ended just over 10,000 years ago, the Earth's climate has been relatively stable, with just a few fluctuations; at least until the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in the 1700s, when the climate began to increase in temperature. "Global Warming Cycles" focuses on the mechanisms that caused past climate changes, putting the Earth repeatedly into and out of ice ages. It compares natural cycles with today's rapid global warming, caused principally by the behavior of humans. This timely new volume presents the many physical factors that shape the Earth's climate, examining the ones that are out of our control as well as the ones that humans have a direct impact on. It also looks at how scientists use landform clues from the past to assess global warming and how they apply that knowledge to the future to help prepare current and future society for what is to come. Chapters of this title include: Ice Ages; Glacial Retreat and Meltdown; The Cryosphere and Isostasy; Ocean Currents and Climate; Ri Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=33239 While there are several factors that contribute to global warming, such as natural changes in the Earth's inclination and revolution around the sun, by far the biggest factor is the emission of greenhouse gases. Carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, chlorofluorocarbons, water vapor, and nitrous oxide are added at alarming rates to the atmosphere by daily human activity. Every person on Earth has a 'carbon footprint' - a measure of greenhouse gas contributed to the atmosphere on a daily basis. Some people's footprints are much higher than others; for instance, those that live in developed countries such as the United States (the largest greenhouse gas emitter), emit much greater amounts than those living in undeveloped countries of the world. Various activities, such as agricultural and deforestation practices, also emit greenhouse gases. "Greenhouse Gases" explores the very important role these gases play and their global impact on populations and ecosystems worldwide. The goal of this book is to provide readers with an understanding of the various sources of these gases, their interaction with the atmosphere, their effect on natural systems, and why controlling them is critical to the Earth's future climate. Other issues discussed in this new, full-color book include the role of the ozone and a newly discovered concept called "global dimming" and how it relates to global warming. The chapters include: The Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming; Carbon Sequestration; Agriculture and Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=32309 John C. Polkinghorne’s renowned trilogy on the compatibility of religion and science is back in print. One World (originally published in 1986) introduces issues in science and religion that Dr. Polkinghorne subsequently continued in Science and Providence and Science and Creation. The books have been widely acclaimed individually and as a series. In the new preface to One World, Dr. Polkinghorne assesses his original writing of this book, pointing to themes that have remained important to his thinking and topics that have been expanded and modified through recent scientific discoveries. In fact, he contends, in today’s postmodern culture “the issue of what we can know and how we can gain knowledge is one of even greater criticality than it was in 1986.” Both science and religion explore aspects of reality, providing “a basis for their mutual interaction as they present their different perspectives onto the one world of existent reality,” Polkinghorne argues. In One World he develops his thesis through an examination of the nature of science, the nature of the physical world, the character of theology, and the modes of thought in science and theology. He identifies “points of interaction” and points of potential conflict between science and religion. Along the way, he discusses creation, determinism, prayer, miracles, and future life, and he explains his rejection of scientific reductionism and his defense of natural theology. Science does not have an absolute superiority Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=32203 Das Buch versteht sich als breit angelegte, methodische Einfuhrung fur Praktiker und Studenten. Die Ausarbeitung stellt ein breites Grundlagenwerk dar, das vielfaltige Aspekte der Geoinformatik erlautert. Dabei stehen nicht Geoinformationssysteme im Vordergrund (das Werk hat ein Kapitel GIS), vielmehr werden auch Grundlagen der Kartographie und Vermessung aufgezeigt. Hierbei wird eine Auswahl getroffen. So werden nicht samtliche Kartenprojektionen erlautert, aber Prinzipien verdeutlicht, soweit sie im Rahmen der Geoinformatik wichtig sind. Hierdurch sollen Grundlagen fur das Arbeiten mit Koordinaten gelegt werden. In ahnlicher Weise werden die ubrigen Inhalte behandelt. In der zweiten Auflage wurden alle Inhalte erweitert. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=32200 Introduces and reviews the science of geomorphology, explaining what it is, how it works, and the phenomena that surround the entire field. Brings to light the recent advances that have caused a renewed interest in the field, which includes data from a variety of disciplines, including geodesy, seismology, and Quaternary climate change. Softcover. DLC: Geomorphology. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=31836 This book provides a sound introduction to the basic physical processes that dominate the workings of the Earth, its atmosphere and hydrosphere. It systematically introduces the physical processes involved in the Earth’s systems without assuming an advanced physics or mathematical background. Physical Processes in Earth and Environmental Sciences provides an integrated approach to the study of earth, marine and atmospheric environmental sciences, reflecting current trends in undergraduate courses. The text considers the various Earth systems through a basic account of general physical properties, kinematics, forces and dynamics that cause flow transport and deformation. Natural examples of physical processes, rather than abstract physics and maths, are used throughout to illustrate the scientific principles involved. This important book will be an essential reference for undergraduate students in a range of earth and environmental sciences. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=31631 Looks at meteorology through the ages - from our earliest prediction devices to state-of-the-art, satellite-predicted forecasts. This title also covers the importance of water and air circulation cycles, and discusses the impact of the irrepressible forces of nature. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=31630 A mountain explodes. The earth shakes. Powerful ocean waves crash into coastlines. News reports from around the globe often feature stories about such dramatic and destructive events. "Volcanic Eruptions, Earthquakes, and Tsunamis" explores the underground causes of these natural disasters and shows how scientists seek to save lives through greater understanding of Earth's wild and restless geology. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=31447 From the simple Triangular Diamond and the Tower to the more advanced Cuboctahedron and the magnificent Stella Octangular, 30 multifaceted marvels will not only challenge devotees of the ancient Japanese art of paperfolding but will also appeal to students and others interested in math and geometry. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=31445 Gretel H. Schueller "Rivers, Lakes, and Oceans" Chelsea House Publications | English | 2008-12-30 | ISBN: 0791097978 | 109 pages | PDF | 12,4 MB Water covers more than 70 percent of Earth’s surface, and all of it is connected in the never-ending water cycle. A substance that can cut through solid rock, destroy cities, sculpt mountains and coastlines, and affect climate, water is a mighty force in nature. The power of moving water, such as in rivers, changes Earth’s landscape, creating valleys and deep canyons over time. In Rivers, Lakes, and Oceans, follow the nonstop journey of water as it rushes along in rivers and streams, travels beneath the ground, rests in lakes, crashes against coastlines, and flows into the ocean. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=31405 Tracers in Hydrology and Water Research is a comprehensive overview of the application of natural and artificial tracers in hydrology and environmental research. Taking a unique approach by providing the reader with a systematic and state of the art description of natural and artificial tracers, the book also covers key analytical techniques and applications, and modern tracer methods in the context of systematic hydrology. Tracers have become a primary tool for process investigation, qualitative and quantitative system analysis and integrated resource management. This book will outline the fundamentals of the subject, and examine the latest research findings, clearly showing the entire process of tracer application through the inclusion of numerous integrated case studies. As many techniques derive from different scientific disciplines (chemistry, biology, physics), the effort of compilation and integration into modern hydrology and environmental science research and application requires substantial continuity and experience, which certifies this group of authors. This book will be an invaluable reference not only for students and researchers within the field of Hydrology and Hydrogeology but also for engineers and other tracer techniques applying users. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=30847 Fluid dynamics is fundamental to our understanding of the atmosphere and oceans. Although many of the same principles of fluid dynamics apply to both the atmosphere and oceans, textbooks tend to concentrate on the atmosphere, the ocean, or the theory of geophysical fluid dynamics (GFD). This textbook provides a comprehensive unified treatment of atmospheric and oceanic fluid dynamics. The book introduces the fundamentals of geophysical fluid dynamics, including rotation and stratification, vorticity and potential vorticity, and scaling and approximations. It discusses baroclinic and barotropic instabilities, wave-mean flow interactions and turbulence, and the general circulation of the atmosphere and ocean. Student problems and exercises are included at the end of each chapter. Atmospheric and Oceanic Fluid Dynamics: Fundamentals and Large-Scale Circulation will be an invaluable graduate textbook on advanced courses in GFD, meteorology, atmospheric science and oceanography, and an excellent review volume for researchers. Additional resources are available at: http://www.vallisbook.org/ http://www.princeton.edu/~gkv/ Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=29931 Mapping Geomorphological Environments is a highly descriptive textbook providing an excellent introduction to the latest methodologies for mapping geomorphological formations in a variety of different environments. Its holistic approach seeks to provide a meaningful linkage between state of the art techniques for geomorphological mapping, including the latest innovations in geospatial applications, and advances in the understanding of the formation of geomorphological phenomena in a variety of settings and environments. The book includes: - An introduction to the processes which form geomorphological formations and how to map them. - Case studies from a variety of environments with many examples of geomorphological maps. - In-depth descriptions of the latest tools and methodologies such as field sampling, GPS usage, 3–4D mapping, GIS analysis, digital image analysis, etc. - A list of the geomorphological characteristics per environment (e.g. coastal, fluvial, etc.) in the format of a geomorphological encyclopaedia, with pictures, maps and symbols. It covers the entire workflow ranging from data collection, analysis, interpretation, and mapping. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=28536 The only single-source reference available on atmospheric chemistry, aerosols, and atmospheric models This fully revised and expanded version of John H. Seinfeld's successful Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics of Air Pollution provides a rigorous, comprehensive treatment of the chemistry of the atmosphere. With new chapters on such important topics as cloud physics, nucleation, and wet deposition, this book offers a truly up-to-date examination of atmospheric chemistry today, including: * Chemistry of the stratosphere and troposphere * Formation, growth, dynamics, thermodynamics, and properties of aerosols * Meteorology of air pollution * Transport, diffusion, and removal of species in the atmosphere * Formulation of mathematical chemical/transport models of the atmosphere. Complete with solved examples, problems graded according to difficulty, and hundreds of illustrations, this state-of-the art reference is an ideal resource for both students and professionals in all areas of engineering as well as atmospheric science. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=28526 Meeting the need for teaching material suitable for students of atmospheric science and courses on atmospheric radiation, this textbook covers the fundamentals of emission, absorption, and scattering of electromagnetic radiation from ultraviolet to infrared and beyond. Much of the contents applies to planetary atmosphere, with graded discussions providing a thorough treatment of subjects, including single scattering by particles at different levels of complexity. The discussion of the simple multiple scattering theory introduces concepts in more advanced theories, such that the more complicated two-stream theory allows readers to progress beyond the pile-of-plates theory. The authors are physicists teaching at the largest meteorology department in the US at Penn State. The problems given in the text come from students, colleagues, and correspondents, and the figures designed especially for this book facilitate comprehension. Ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of atmospheric science. Free solutions manual available for lecturers at www.wiley-vch.de/supplements/ Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=28525 This book contains state-of-the-art continuous wavelet analysis of one and more dimensional (geophysical) signals. Special attention is given to the reconaissance of specific properties of a signal. It also contains an extension of standard wavelet approximation to the application of so-called second generation wavelets for efficient representation of signals at various scales even on the sphere and more complex geometries. Furthermore, the book discusses the application of harmonic (spherical) wavelets in potential field analysis with emphasis on the gravity field of the Earth. Many examples are given for practical application of these tools; to support the text exercises and demonstrations are available on the Web. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=28524 Recent results on waves in the ocean are scattered in hundreds of research articles, a situation which makes it difficult for anyone to initiate himself to the field. Available textbooks are either out of date or narrowly specialized to some particular aspect of the subject. Although it is impossible to write a definitive account of a rapidly evolving field, such as that of ocean waves, this book attempts to present a broad review of this field, ranging from capillary to planetary waves, with emphasis on modern developments. The text is primarily intended for graduate students, who are encouraged to test their comprehension by working out the exercises given at the ends of most sections. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=27454 Plate Tectonics (Science Foundations) By Stephen M. Tomecek * Publisher: Chelsea House Publications * Number Of Pages: 102 * Publication Date: 2009-05-30 * ISBN-10 / ASIN: 1604130148 * ISBN-13 / EAN: 9781604130140 Product Description: The development of the plate tectonic theory was one of the great revolutions in the history of science. Before the plate tectonic theory, most scientists believed that Earth was a static planet that never really changed. Working like detectives, a small group of pioneering individuals slowly pieced together an entirely different picture of our Earth, showing that the planet is really a dynamic, active world. Over the course of millions of years, continents collided with each other, oceans opened and closed, and mountains rose and fell - and these changes continue today. "Plate Tectonics" examines the evolution of plate tectonic theory from its beginnings as a wild idea of drifting continents to its acceptance as the main concept that drives geology today. The book also focuses on the lives and achievements of those individuals who fought great odds to give rise to one of the most important theories in science. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=27128 Rainfall over Thailand during ENSO (1997 2000) (Wonlee and Prungchan) Formation of Tropical Cyclone Concentric Eye Walls by Wave Mean Flow Interactions (J Y Peng et al.) Anthropogenic Aerosol Radiative Forcing in the INDO-Gangetic Basi (S Dey and S N Tripathi) Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=27127 Advances in Geosciences is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering six sections: Hydrological Science (HS), Planetary Science (PS), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Solid Earth (SE), Ocean Science (OS) and Atmospheric Science (AS). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, atmospheric dust storms, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, monsoons, space weather, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26996 Advances in Geosciences is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering six sections: Hydrological Science (HS), Planetary Science (PS), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Solid Earth (SE), Ocean Science (OS) and Atmospheric Science (AS). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, atmospheric dust storms, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, monsoons, space weather, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26995 “Advances in Geosciences” is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering five sections: Solid Earth (SE), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Planetary Science (PS), Hydrological Science (HS), and Oceans and Atmospheres (OA). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, space weathers, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26994 “Advances in Geosciences” is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering five sections: Solid Earth (SE), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Planetary Science (PS), Hydrological Science (HS), and Oceans and Atmospheres (OA). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, space weathers, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26993 “Advances in Geosciences” is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering five sections: Solid Earth (SE), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Planetary Science (PS), Hydrological Science (HS), and Oceans and Atmospheres (OA). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, space weathers, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26992 “Advances in Geosciences” is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering five sections: Solid Earth (SE), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Planetary Science (PS), Hydrological Science (HS), and Oceans and Atmospheres (OA). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, space weathers, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26991 “Advances in Geosciences” is the result of a concerted effort in bringing the latest results and planning activities related to earth and space science in Asia and the international arena. The volume editors are all leading scientists in their research fields covering five sections: Solid Earth (SE), Solar Terrestrial (ST), Planetary Science (PS), Hydrological Science (HS), and Oceans and Atmospheres (OA). The main purpose is to highlight the scientific issues essential to the study of earthquakes, tsunamis, climate change, drought, flood, typhoons, space weathers, and planetary exploration. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26735 Clouds play a critical role in the Earth’s climate, general atmospheric circulation, and global water balance. Clouds are essential elements in mesoscale meteorology, atmospheric chemistry, air pollution, atmosphericradiation, and weather forecasting, and thus must be understood by any student or researcher in the atmospheric sciences. Cloud Dynamics provides a skillful and comprehensive examination of the nature of clouds–what they look like and why, how scientists observe them, and the basic dynamics and physics that underlie them. The book describes the mechanics governing each type of cloud that occurs in Earth’s atmosphere, and the organization of various types of clouds in larger weather systems such as fronts, thunderstorms, and hurricanes.This book is aimed specifically at graduate students, advanced undergraduates, practicing researchers either already in atmospheric science or moving in from a related scientific field, and operational meteorologists. Some prior knowledge of atmospheric dynamics and physics is helpful, but a thorough overview of the necessary prerequisites is supplied. Key Features * Key Highlights of This Text * Provides a complete treatment of clouds integrating the analysis of air motions with cloud structure, microphysics, and precipitation mechanics * Describes and explains the basic types of clouds and cloud systems that occur in the atmosphere-fog, stratus, stratocumulus, altocumulus, altostratus, cirrus, thunderstorms, tornadoes, water Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26734 Global Physical Climatology is an introductory text devoted to the fundamental physical principles and problems of climate sensitivity and change. Addressing some of the most critical issues in climatology, this text features incisive coverage of topics that are central to understanding orbital parameter theory for past climate changes, and for anthropogenic and natural causes of near-future changes– Key Features * Covers the physics of climate change * Examines the nature of the current climate and its previous changes * Explores the sensitivity of climate and the mechanisms by which humans are likely to produce near-future climate changes * Provides instructive end-of-chapter exercises and appendices Summary: handy Rating: 5 it’s small sized as a text book. so it is easier to carry it around and read it at extra minutes, like when you’re waiting for bus. Summary: Hooray for Hartmann! Rating: 5 Simply put, this is the only assigned text I kept from my college years. It’s compact size and overall readability are excellent. Although intended for advanced undergrads and beginning graduate students, it’s still a great reference for multi-disciplinary scientists, basic global circulation modellers, researchers, and professors. The appendices are particularly noteworhty, especially the list of English and Greek symbols commonly used in just about all thephysical sciences, and the derivation of SI Units. If anything, the book is pricey (as all in the Internatio Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26733 Absorbing, up-to-date monograph by expert sets forth most of what has been learned about lightning, augmented with a generous selection of diagrams, charts, and photographs. Appendices on electromagnetics, statistics, and experimental techniques help clarify some of the concepts covered in the text. 144 illustrations. Appendices. Index. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=26617 When an oceanic tidal wave that is primarily active on the water surface passes an ocean shelf or a region with a seamount, it is split into a less energetic surface wave and other internal modes with different wavelengths and propagation speeds. This cascading process, from the barotropic tides to the baroclinic components, leads to the transformation of tidal energy into turbulence and heat, an important process for the dynamics of the lower ocean. Baroclinic Tides demonstrates the analytical and numerical methods used to study the generation and evolution of baroclinic tides and, by comparison with experiments and observational data, shows how to distinguish and interpret internal waves. Strongly non-linear solitary internal waves, which are generated by internal tidal waves at the final stage of their evolution, are investigated in detail. This book is intended for researchers and graduate students of physical oceanography, geophysical fluid dynamics and hydroacoustics. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=25574 The book Time Series Analysis and Inverse Theory for Geophysicists by D. Gubbins is according to the author, aimed at "providing the students of geophysics with an introduction to these [digital] techniques and an understanding of the underlying philosophy and mathematical theory." My impression is that the author has achieved this goal quite well. I would recommend the book as an introductory textbook at undergraduate- and graduate-level courses intended as a general introduction to the numerical techniques used in the processing of geophysical data. The advanced topics of the inverse theory briefly covered in the book can also be interesting for practitioners who need a guide in selecting the proper mathematical approach when solving real problems." Wojciech Debski, Institute of Geophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences "Professor Gubbins is very well qualified by training, aptitude and experience to write a book of this nature. This fine book reveals years of wisdom and experience in teaching extensive and hard topics. The treatment is elegant, clear, logical, warm and surprisingly full for a book that is not large, and contains many interesting snippets of information and relevant illustrations. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=25573 Following the recognition that airborne particulate matter, even at quite modest concentrations, has an adverse effect on human health, there has been an intense research effort to understand the mechanisms and quantify the effects. One feature that has shone through is the important role of ultrafine particles as a contributor to the adverse effects of airborne particles. In this volume, many researchers in the field have collaborated to provide a state-of-the-art overview of the scientific and medical research on ultrafine particles. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=25572 This book provides the first comprehensive account of the dynamical behaviour and mechanisms of the global climate system and its components, together with a modern survey of synoptic-scale weather systems in the tropics and extratropics. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24725 This authoritative resource covers all aspects of atmospheric sciences-including both theory and applications. Nearly 350 articles and over 1,900 figures and photographs are presented, many in full-color. The Encyclopedia is an ideal resource for academia, government, and industry in the fields of atmospheric, ocean, and environmental sciences. It is written at a level that allows undergraduate students to understand the material, while providing active researchers with the latest information in the field. The Encyclopedia of Atmospheric Sciences has been developed alongside the award-winning Encyclopedia of Ocean Sciences. Together these references provide readers with a comprehensive resource and a link between these two fields. *Covers all aspects of atmospheric sciences-including both theory and applications *Presents nearly 350 articles and over 1,900 figures and photographs *Broad-ranging articles include topics such as atmospheric chemistry, biogeochemical cycles, boundary layers, clouds, general circulation, global change, mesoscale meteorology, ozone, radar, satellite remote sensing, and weather prediction. *An ideal resource for academia, government, and industry in the fields of atmospheric, ocean, and environmental sciences *The Encyclopedia of Atmospheric Sciences was developed alongside the award-winning Encyclopedia of Ocean Sciences; together these references provide readers with a comprehensive resource and a link between these two fields Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24616 The current contribution can be seen as a sequel of the Springer books "Occultations for Probing Atmosphere and Climate", edited by G. Kirchengast, U. Foelsche, and A.K. Steiner, published in 2004, and "Atmosphere and Climate – Studies by Occultation Methods", edited by U. Foelsche, G. Kirchengast, and A.K. Steiner. While these books contained scientific results presented at the 1st and 2nd OPAC workshop in Graz (Sep 2002, Sep 2004), the current contribution features new results, presented at the 3rd OPAC workshop in Graz (Sep 2007), in the form of peer-reviewed papers. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24614 This 4th volume of LIGHT SCATTERING REVIEWS is devoted to modern knowledge and milestones in both experimental and theoretical techniques related to light scattering and radiative transport problems. It consists of 3 chapters comprising 12 contributions written by leading world experts in their respective fields. The general focus of the book is on single light scattering and radiative transfer. The three chapters are devoted to experimental studies in the optics of light scattering media. The first chapter consists of three parts: In the first part, the main properties of scattering matrices are presented in a systematic way, together with polarimetric decomposition theorems in a great detail. The Green’s function techniques for plane wave scattering by nonspherical particles is introduced in the second part. Different conceptual advantages and disadvantages of various numerical schemes developed in the past for the calculation of light scattering and absorption properties of small particles are discussed. The chapter concludes with studies of representations of the rotation group and T-matrix methods as applied for the calculation of optical properties of small particles with various habits. The second chapter of the book describes recent results in the broad area of forward and inverse problems of the radiative transfer. The first paper surveys techniques for theoretical studies of light scattering and polarization of molecular atmosphere. The application of time-depende Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24612 Warming of the climate system is beyond argument, as shown by observations of increases in average air and ocean temperatures, the widespread melting of snow and ice, and rising global sea levels. But as the messages from scientists become increasingly explicit, the gap between the need for action they project and the climate policy the world leaders put in place remains. The purpose of this guide is to increase public understanding about the urgency of action to combat climate change and its impacts. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24606 Fundamentals of Atmospheric Physics emphasizes the interrelationships of physical and dynamical meteorology. The text unifies four major subject areas: atmospheric thermodynamics, hydrostatic equilibrium and stability, atmospheric radiation and clouds, and atmospheric dynamics. These fundamental areas serve as cornerstones of modern atmospheric research on environmental issues like global change and ozone depletion. Physical concepts underlying these subject areas are developed from first principles, providing a self-contained text for students and scholars from diverse backgrounds. The presentation is Lagrangian (single-body problems) in perspective, with a balance of theory and application. Each chapter includes detailed and extensive problems; selected answers are provided, as are appendices of various constants. The text requires a thorough foundation in calculus. * Presents a comprehensive introduction to atmospheric thermodynamics, hydrostatics, radiation and clouds, and dynamics * Develops concepts from first principles, providing a self-contained volume for readers from diverse backgrounds * Emphasizes the interaction of physical processes shaping global problems of atmospheric energetics, transport, and chemistry * Provides a balance of theory and applications, with examples drawn from a wide range of phenomena figuring in global atmospheric research * Extensively illustrated with global satellite imagery and analyses and photographs of laboratory simulations Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24604 A complete revision of Goody's classic 1964 work, this volume offers a systematic discussion of atmospheric radiation processes that today are at the center of worldwide study and concern. It deals with the ways in which incident solar radiation is transformed into scattered and thermal radiation, and the thermodynamic consequences for the Earth's gaseous envelope, identifying aspects of the interaction between radiation and atmospheric motions as the central theme for atmospheric radiation studies. As a complete treatment of physical and mathematical foundations, the text assumes no prior knowledge of atmospheric physics. The theoretical discussion is systematic, and can therefore be applied with minor extension to any planetary atmosphere. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=24338 This book presents the theory and applications of radiative transfer in the atmosphere. It is written for graduate students and researchers in the fields of meteorology and related sciences. The book begins with important basic definitions of the radiative transfer theory. It presents the hydrodynamic derivation of the radiative transfer equation and the principles of variance. The authors examine in detail various quasi-exact solutions of the radiative transfer equation and give a thorough treatment of the radiative perturbation theory. A rigorous treatment of Mie scattering is given, including Rayleigh scattering as a special case, and the important efficiency factors for extinction, scattering and absorption are derived. The fundamentals of remote sensing applications of radiative transfer are presented. Problems of varying degrees of difficulty are included at the end of each chapter, so readers can further their understanding of the materials covered in the book. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=22349 Product Description Get positive suggestions for practical solutions to this heated issue. Hotly debated in the political arena and splashed across the media almost 24/7, global warming has become the topic of the moment. Whatever one's views on its cause, there is no denying that the earth's climate is changing, and people everywhere are worried. Global Warming For Dummies sorts out fact from fiction, explaining the science behind climate change and examining the possible long-term effects of a warmer planet. This no-nonsense yet friendly guide helps you explore solutions to this challenging problem, from what governments and industry can do to what you can do at home and how to get involved. From the Back Cover Understand global warming and what you can do to make a positive difference! Fiercely debated in the political arena and constantly splashed across the media, global warming is a hot topic. Global Warming For Dummies sorts out fact from fiction, explaining the science behind climate change and examining the possible long-term effects of a warmer planet. This friendly guide helps readers explore solutions to this challenging problem, from what governments and industry can do to what readers can do at home and how to get involved. * Understanding the greenhouse effect — discover how greenhouse gases affect the planet's atmosphere * Tracking down the causes — investigate how society has caused a build-up of greenhouse gases in Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=21363 This volume provides an "introductory-level" exploration of geophysical fluid dynamics -- with a focus on the physics, not the mathematics. Explores special contemporary topics of climate dynamics and equatorial dynamics -- e.g., the greenhouse effect, global warming, El Nino, Southern oscillation; provides an appendix on waves; includes short biographies of important scientists; and contains simple and complex laboratory demonstrations. For students and researchers in environmental fluid dynamics, and for practicing biologists, atmospheric chemists and engineers. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=21334 Variations in solar activity, as revealed by variations in the number of sunspots, have been observed since ancient times. To what extent changes in the solar output may affect planetary climates, though, remains today more than ever a subject of controversy. In 2000, the SSSI volume on Solar Variability and Climate reviewed the to-date understanding of the physics of solar variability and of the associated climate response. The present volume on Solar Variability and Planetary Climates provides an overview of recent advances in this field, with particular focus at the Earth's middle and lower atmosphere. The book structure mirrors that of the ISSI workshop held in Bern in June 2005, the collection of invited workshop contributions and of complementary introductory papers synthesizing the current understanding in key research areas such as middle atmospheric processes, stratosphere-troposphere dynamical coupling, tropospheric aerosols chemistry, solar storm influences, solar variability physics, and terrestrial climate analogues. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=21333 This is a self-contained, concise, rigorous book introducing the reader to the basics of atmospheric thermodynamics, and the author is a highly respected researcher in this field. This new edition has been brought completely up to date and reorganized to improve the quality and flow of the material. Each chapter contains worked examples and student exercises, making this an ideal text for short undergraduate courses taken as part of an atmospheric science, meteorology, physics or natural science program. Solutions available to lecturers. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=21250 This exciting text provides a mathematically rigorous yet accessible textbook that is primarily aimed at atmospheric science majors. Its accessibility is due to the texts emphasis on conceptual understanding. The first five chapters constitute a companion text to introductory courses covering the dynamics of the mid-latitude atmosphere. The final four chapters constitute a more advanced course, and provide insights into the diagnostic power of the quasi-geostrophic approximation of the equations outlined in the previous chapters, the meso-scale dynamics of thefrontal zone, the alternative PV perspective for cyclone interpretation, and the dynamics of the life-cycle of mid-latitude cyclones. • Written in a clear and accessible style • Features real weather examples and global case studies • Each chapter sets out clear learning objectives and tests students’ knowledge with concluding questions and answers Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT http://www.freebookspot.in/Comments.aspx?Element_ID=21249 This will be the 3rd volume of a Light Scattering Reviews series devoted to current knowledge of light scattering problems and both experimental and theoretical research techniques related to their solution. This volume will cover applications in remote sensing, inverse problems and geophysics, with a particular focus on terrestrial clouds. Clouds have an extremely complex structure and their influence on climate is poorly understood. Therefore, studies of clouds using ground-based, airborne, shipborne and satellite optical instrumentation are of great importance. The theoretical aspects of this problem constitute the main emphasis of this work. Read more...
]]> Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:09:50 GMT