Living on an Active Earth: Perspectives on Earthquake Science (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780309065627)

The destructive force of earthquakes has stimulated human inquiry since ancient times, yet the scientific study of earthquakes is a surprisingly recent endeavor. Instrumental recordings of earthquakes were not made until the second half of the 19th century, and the primary mechanism for generating seismic waves was not identified until the beginning of the 20th century.

From this recent start, a range of laboratory, field, and theoretical investigations have developed into a vigorous new discipline: the science of earthquakes. As a basic science, it provides a comprehensive understanding of earthquake behavior and related phenomena in the Earth and other terrestrial planets. As an applied science, it provides a knowledge base of great practical value for a global society whose infrastructure is built on the Earth's active crust.

This book describes the growth and origins of earthquake science and identifies research and data collection efforts that will strengthen the scientific and social contributions of this exciting new discipline.

Author: National Research Council,Division on Earth and Life Studies,Board on Earth Sciences and Resources
ISBN-10: 0309065623
ISBN-13: 9780309065627
Publisher: National Academies Press
Language: English
Published: 09/22/2003
Pages: 430
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 2.07lbs
Size: 9.30h x 6.26w x 1.15d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 04/01/2004 pg. 1505