The directional feature of Earth's geomagnetic field has been contributing to the technological development and prosperity of humankind since the invention of the magnetic compass navigation centuries ago. Today, for instance, magnetoresistance sensors are commonly used in nanosatellites and unmanned aerial vehicles for high accuracy geomagnetic…

We describe a simple experiment demonstrating the variation in magnitude of a magnetic field with distance. The method described requires only an ordinary magnetic compass and a permanent magnet. The proposed graphical analysis illustrates a unique method for deducing a general rule of magnetostatics. (Contains 1 table and 6 figures.)

Discusses exploration and mapping of the continental basement using the seismic reflection profiling technique as well as drilling methods. Also discusses computer analysis of gravity and magnetic fields. Points out the need for data that can be correlated to surface information. (JM)

Describes models which (1) illustrate spreading that varies in rate from place to place; (2) clearly show transform faults as arcs of small circles; and (3) illustrate what happens near a pole of rotation. The models are easy to construct and have been well received by students. (JN)

Described is the use of a microcomputer and computer software to simulate the use of geological equipment. The technique uses pictures of the control panel (with switches and dials that can be activated) and a story board that can provide the simulation. A simple seismograph is used as an example of possible simulations. (RH)

Describes a graduate-level tectonics course which includes the historical basis for modern tectonics concepts and an in-depth review of pros/cons of plate tectonics. Tectonic features discussed include: ocean basins; volcanic arcs; continental margins; continents; orogenic belts; foreland fold and thrust belts; volcanic/plutonic belts of orogens;…

Describes a demonstration of Coriolis acceleration. Discusses two different meanings of "Coriolis" and two causes of Coriolis acceleration. Gives a set-up method of the demonstration apparatus by using a rotary disk with rubber tubing for tap water, switches, lamps, battery, and counterweight. Provides two pictures with operating method.…

Discussed is the physicists' impact on the revolution in the earth sciences particularly involving the overthrow of the fixist notions in geology. Topics discussed include the mobile earth, the route to plate tectonics, radiometric dating, the earth's magnetic field, ocean floor spreading plate boundaries, infiltration of physics into geology and…

"Astronomy with the Space Telescope" is a course designed to show scientists/engineers how this instrument can make important advances in astrophysics, planetology, and geophysics. A description of the course (taught to 11 students working for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and sample student paper on black holes are…

Discusses five recent advances in sedimentary tectonics, noting how they are incorporated into college curricula. Advances discussed include basin type, tectonic setting, facies analysis (in conjunction with basin type/setting), stratigraphic analysis of reflection seismic data, and quantitative analysis of subsidence histories of sedimentary…

Discusses magnetic polarity stratigraphy as a tool for correlation of fossiliferous terrestrial deposits. Explains the strengths, weaknesses, limitations, preferred conditions, sampling, laboratory analysis, and applications of this technique. A table of paleomagnetic studies on vertebrate-bearing terrestrial sections arranged by age and locality…

A method of plotting planes on stereonets is described including great circles, poles, and dip vectors. Teaching applications of dip vectors in engineering geology and structural geology are discussed. (CW)

Provides an introduction and explanations of stress-strain relationships, measuring stress, a goal of structural analysis, and legitimate applications of the concept of stress. Diagrams include a derivation of the stress tensor, graphical representations of stress-strain relations, and related problems. (RT)

Discusses the origin of the catastrophic event as to whether it was an episodic process or of extraterrestrial or endogenous origin. Develops a model of a volcanic mechanism to produce shocked quartz like those found in the Deccan basalts. (MVL)

Presents a review focusing on techniques and their application to the analysis of geological and inorganic materials that offer significant changes to research and routine work. Covers geostandards, spectroscopy, plasmas, microbeam techniques, synchrotron X-ray methods, nuclear activation methods, chromatography, and electroanalytical methods.…