Plate tectonic theory has revolutionized the study of the history of our
planet. It is now becoming increasingly apparent that processes deep
within the Earth's mantle and core strongly influence plate movements,
and it is to these processes that the author addresses himself. Having
discussed the origin, composition, structure and physical properties of
the Earth, the book turns to discuss the key role that interactions
between the mantle and core play in magmatic and tectonic processes.
Other important issues discussed are the nature and existence of mantle
plumes and convection cells, and the similarities and differences of
tectonic processes on other planets in the solar system. These and other
questions are discussed in the context of the Earth's origins, its
chemistry and its physics. All geophysicists and geologists concerned
with earth evolution and plate tectonics should find much of interest in
this book.