This book deals with a class of basic deformations in Asymmetric Continuum Theory. It describes molecular deformations and transport velocities in fluids, strain deformations in solids as well as the molecular transport, important in fracture processes. In solids, a separate problem relates to the displacements; their recording, e.g., by means of the seismometers, proves only the existence of the displacement derivatives and not a real displacement. However, the molecular displacements and new fracture criterion including the defect distributions and induced strains are defined in the book too. In fluids, the transport velocities and molecular strains describe the motion processes. The vortex motions are defined by means of the rotational transport; this approach leads to more complicated problems, like the turbulence phenomena. The interaction processes, including the electric and magnetic fields, and some thermodynamical problems and quantum theory analogies help to understand the extreme processes

Our new monograph has been inspired by the former one, Earthquake Source Asymmetry, Structural Media, and Rotation Effects (R. Teisseyre, M. Takeo, and E. Majewski, eds, Springer 2006). Some problems, c- cerned primarily but not exclusively with the basic theoretical nature, have appeared to us as worthy of further analysis. Thus, in the present mo- graph we intend to develop new theoretical approaches to the theory of continua that go far beyond the traditional seismological applications. We also try to present the links between the experimental data, the observed rotational seismic waves, and their theoretical evaluation and description. In addition, we consider the basic point motions and deformations, and we intend to find the invariant forms to describe such point motions. We believe that there must exist the basic equations for all point motions and deformations, and we derive such relations within a frame of a continuum theory. Thus, in the considered standard asymmetric theory, we include relations not only for the displacement velocities but also for a spin motion and basic point deformations as well. We include here the axial point - formation and twist point deformation represented by the string-string and string-membrane motions. A twist vector is defined here as a vector p- pendicular to the string-string plane and representing its magnitude. It - comes an important counterpart to spin and a key to the presented theory. We show in the forthcoming chapters that the twist motion describes the oscillations of shear axes.

Our new monograph has been inspired by the former one, Earthquake Source Asymmetry, Structural Media, and Rotation Effects (R. Teisseyre, M. Takeo, and E. Majewski, eds, Springer 2006). Some problems, c- cerned primarily but not exclusively with the basic theoretical nature, have appeared to us as worthy of further analysis. Thus, in the present mo- graph we intend to develop new theoretical approaches to the theory of continua that go far beyond the traditional seismological applications. We also try to present the links between the experimental data, the observed rotational seismic waves, and their theoretical evaluation and description. In addition, we consider the basic point motions and deformations, and we intend to find the invariant forms to describe such point motions. We believe that there must exist the basic equations for all point motions and deformations, and we derive such relations within a frame of a continuum theory. Thus, in the considered standard asymmetric theory, we include relations not only for the displacement velocities but also for a spin motion and basic point deformations as well. We include here the axial point - formation and twist point deformation represented by the string-string and string-membrane motions. A twist vector is defined here as a vector p- pendicular to the string-string plane and representing its magnitude. It - comes an important counterpart to spin and a key to the presented theory. We show in the forthcoming chapters that the twist motion describes the oscillations of shear axes.

Conformal invariance has been a spectacularly successful tool in advancing our understanding of the two-dimensional phase transitions found in classical systems at equilibrium. This volume sharpens our picture of the applications of conformal invariance, introducing non-local observables such as loops and interfaces before explaining how they arise in specific physical contexts. It then shows how to use conformal invariance to determine their properties. Moving on to cover key conceptual developments in conformal invariance, the book devotes much of its space to stochastic Loewner evolution (SLE), detailing SLE’s conceptual foundations as well as extensive numerical tests. The chapters then elucidate SLE’s use in geometric phase transitions such as percolation or polymer systems, paying particular attention to surface effects. As clear and accessible as it is authoritative, this publication is as suitable for non-specialist readers and graduate students alike.

Physics of Continuous Matter: Exotic and Everyday Phenomena in the Macroscopic World, Second Edition provides an introduction to the basic ideas of continuum physics and their application to a wealth of macroscopic phenomena. The text focuses on the many approximate methods that offer insight into the rich physics hidden in fundamental continuum mechanics equations. Like its acclaimed predecessor, this second edition introduces mathematical tools on a "need-to-know" basis. New to the Second Edition This edition includes three new chapters on elasticity of slender rods, energy, and entropy. It also offers more margin drawings and photographs and improved images of simulations. Along with reorganizing much of the material, the author has revised many of the physics arguments and mathematical presentations to improve clarity and consistency. The collection of problems at the end of each chapter has been expanded as well. These problems further develop the physical and mathematical concepts presented. With worked examples throughout, this book clearly illustrates both qualitative and quantitative physics reasoning. It emphasizes the importance in understanding the physical principles behind equations and the conditions underlying approximations. A companion website provides a host of ancillary materials, including software programs, color figures, and additional problems.

The study of earthquakes plays a key role in order to minimize human and material losses when they inevitably occur. Chapters in this book will be devoted to various aspects of earthquake research and analysis. The different sections present in the book span from statistical seismology studies, the latest techniques and advances on earthquake precursors and forecasting, as well as, new methods for early detection, data acquisition and interpretation. The topics are tackled from theoretical advances to practical applications.

Over the last six decades, the field of geophysics has experienced rapid development. Seismic methods, magnetic studies, hydrology and atmospheric sciences have expanded thanks to a boom in the computer sciences and measurement techniques. The frontiers of geophysics have also expanded, now including research on the polar areas, both Arctic and Antarctic. All these events are clearly reflected in the 60-year-long history of the Institute of Geophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences. This volume describes the most prominent achievements, the history of research and also the future potential of the Institute of Geophysics PAS. It describes measurements in various projects, methods of interpreting scientific data, and last but not least the people who have driven this research in many scientific projects.