Course Details
Kinematics of plate tectonics. Geometry, determination, and description of plate motions. Paleomagnetism, marine magnetism, and hot spots. History of ocean basins and mountain-building processes. Prerequisites: EARTH 202 and PHYSICS 135-2; or consent of instructor.
Professors: Seth Stein
Required Texts
Introduction to Seismology, Earthquakes, and Earth Structure by S. Stein and M. Wysession (Blackwell Publishing, 2003).
Grade:
Problem Sets
Portable electronic devices may not be used in class. You may discuss homework with each other, but are expected to work and do your writeups independently. Problem sets are due one week after being assigned. Make-ups are ONLY allowed by advance arrangements through the Office of Studies. Late work will be penalized no less than 50%. As per university policy, class attendance is expected and required.
Course Handouts:
Lecture 1, Introduction: ppt1, ppt2, ppt3, pdf
Lecture 2, Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism: ppt, pdf
Lecture 3, Measuring Plate Motions: ppt1, ppt2, ppt3, pdf
Lecture 4, Plate Motions on a Spherical Earth: ppt, pdf
Lecture 5, Absolute Plate Motions & Hotspots: ppt, pdf
Lecture 6, Earthquake Focal Mechanisms and Plate Motions: ppt, pdf
Lecture 7, Geodesy for Tectonic and Earthquake Studies: ppt1, ppt2, ppt3, pdf
Lecture 8, Spreading Centers: ppt, pdf
Lecture 9, Subduction Zones: ppt, pdf
Lecture 10, Plate Boundary Zones & Plate Motion Changes: ppt1, ppt2, pdf
Lecture 11 Continental Intraplate Earthquakes: A Science, Hazard, and Policy Challenge: ppt, pdf