Rock Magnetism, first published in 1997, is a comprehensive treatment of
fine particle magnetism and the magnetic properties of rocks. Starting
from atomic magnetism and magnetostatic principles, the authors explain
why domains and micromagnetic structures form in ferromagnetic crystals
and how these lead to magnetic memory in the form of thermal, chemical
and other remanent magnetizations. The phenomenal stability of these
magnetizations, providing a record of plate tectonic motions over
millions of years, is explained by thermal activation theory. One
chapter is devoted to practical tests of domain state and paleomagnetic
stability; another deals with pseudo-single-domain magnetism. The final
four chapters place magnetism in the context of igneous, sedimentary,
metamorphic, and extraterrestrial rocks. This book will be of great
value to graduate students and researchers in geophysics and geology,
particularly in paleomagnetism and rock magnetism, as well as physicists
and electrical engineers interested in fine-particle magnetism and
magnetic recording.