This second edition of Fundamentals of Geophysics has been completely revised and updated, and is the ideal geophysics textbook for undergraduate students of geoscience with an introductory level of knowledge in physics and mathematics. It gives a comprehensive treatment of the fundamental principles of each major branch of geophysics, and presents geophysics within the wider context of plate tectonics, geodynamics and planetary science. Basic principles are explained with the aid of numerous figures and step-by-step mathematical treatments, and important geophysical results are illustrated with examples from the scientific literature. Text-boxes are used for auxiliary explanations and to handle topics of interest for more advanced students. This new edition also includes review questions at the end of each chapter to help assess the reader's understanding of the topics covered and quantitative exercises for more thorough evaluation. Solutions to the exercises and electronic copies of the figures are available at www.cambridge.org/9780521859028.

Reviews from the first edition:'Bill Lowrie is to be congratulated with this superb effort. I highly recommend this volume as a must-have, middle-level, highly instructive textbook that makes for enjoyable reading at an easily affordable price.'

Source: Tectonophysics

'A book like this defines the subject … The scientific treatment is meticulous. Each topic is described precisely and clearly … an excellent resource for the intermediate student.'

Source: Physics of the Earth and Planetary Interiors

'This superb textbook manages to bear the weight of the complex mathematics associated with the study of the Earth's surface and interior. William Lowrie simplifies the maths to about second-year degree level … an excellent textbook.'

Source: New Scientist

'The book is well illustrated and clearly presented. I have already found it helpful in teaching second-year geology students and have no doubt that it will be a useful reference book for undergraduates.'

Source: Geological Magazine

'This is the best and most comprehensive general geophysics book available, not only for undergraduate students but also for more experienced graduate students. It is clearly written, beautifully illustrated, and has the appropriate balance between mathematical and descriptive treatment. I particularly like the brief historical accounts that accompany each chapter. The new second edition includes text boxes that deal concisely with specific background topics (e.g. Fourier transforms), as well as useful exercises for students at the end of each chapter.'

Professor Jim Channell - Department of Geological Sciences, University of Florida

'This is an excellent textbook. I have recommended the first edition…and I will be recommending this edition in the future.'

Source: Journal of Geological Magazine

'…will serve as a very clear textbook for students and a very helpful reference for qualified specialists. …essential reading.'

Source: Zentralblatt fur Geologie und Palaontologie