Discusses: (1) the physics of ice formation; (2) growth, melting, and regrowth of ice; (3) ice distribution; (4) ice movement; (5) the marginal ice zone; and (6) observations of ice dynamics. (JN)

Examines remote sensing of the arctic seas by discussing: (1) passive microwave sensors; (2) active microwave sensors; (3) other types of sensors; (4) the future deployment of sensors; (5) data buoys; and (6) future endeavors. (JN)

Hot spots are isolated areas of geologic activity where volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and upwelling currents occur far from plate boundaries. These mantle plumes are relatively stable and crustal plates drift over them. The nature and location of hot spots (with particular attention to the Hawaiian Islands and Iceland) are discussed. (DH)

The continuing controversey over offshore oil/gas has given impetus to searching for domestic energy alternatives. The need for and types of several alternative sources are discussed. Indicates that the United States needs to pursue both offshore and other domestic liquid-fuel sources if it is to avoid becoming increasingly dependent on imports.…

Consequences of major and minor volcanic eruptions which took place during 1982 are discussed. These include lava flows, explosive activity, cloud production, and earthquakes of such volcanoes as Mount St. Helens, El-Chichon (Mexico), and Galunggung (Indonesia). Books, conferences, and publications focusing on volcanology are highlighted. (JN)

Estimates of undiscovered oil resources are developed in two general ways: historical-trend analysis and geological analogy. Each of these methods is discussed. Indicates that only well-defined and repeatable methods project a rather bleak future for United States oil discovery. (JN)

This report introduces oceanographers to the International System of Units (SI) in physical oceanography. The SI constitutes a universal language, designed to be understood by all scientists. It facilitates their mutual comprehension and exchange of views and results of their work. The first part of the report is devoted to physical quantities,…

Describes how seismic tomography is used to analyze the waves produced by earthquakes. The information obtained from the procedure can then be used to map the earth's mantle in three dimensions. The resulting maps are then studied to determine such information as the convective flow that propels the crustal plates. (JN)

Reviews current ideas and research findings related to the flow patterns of mantle rocks. Highlights the components of the two-layer convection and whole-mantle models of mantle flow. Proposes that mantle flow is the key to understanding how the earth has cooled and chemically evolved. (ML)

Many properties of new particle field theories can only be tested by comparing their predictions about the physical conditions immediately after the big bang with what can be reconstructed about this event from astronomical data. Facts/questions about big bang, unified field theories, and universe epochs/mass are among the topics discussed. (JN)

Seismic events which took place during 1982 form the focus of this review on 1982 seismic research activities and projects. Funding problems for local and other networks, earthquake-prediction research (funded by National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977: P.L. 95-124), use of computers, and aftershocks are among the areas addressed. (JN)

New seismic techniques have been developed recently that borrow theory from academic institutions and technology from industry, allowing scientists to explore deeper into the earth with much greater precision than possible with older seismic methods. Several of these methods are discussed, including the seismic reflection common-depth-point…

Continental crust underlies the continents, their margins, and also small shallow regions in oceans. The nature of the crust (much older than oceanic crust) and its dynamics are discussed. Research related to and effects of tectonics, volcanism, erosion, and sedimentation on the crust are considered. (JN)

The nature of the earth's core is described. Indirect evidence (such as that determined from seismological data) indicates that it is an iron alloy, solid toward its center but otherwise liquid. Evidence also suggests that it is the turbulent flow of the liquid that generates the earth's magnetic field. (JN)

The nature and dynamics of the earth's mantle is discussed. Research indicates that the silicate mantle is heated by the decay of radioactive isotopes and that the heat energizes massive convention currents in the upper 700 kilometers of the ductile rock. These currents and their consequences are considered. (JN)