Magnetism of Rocks

Have you ever wondered how to explain to your friends and acquaintances what you specialize in within your scientific field? And have you tried to convey why this niche topic is incredibly exciting and directly related to everyday life? This book addresses exactly that: it invites you to take a closer look at our environment without getting lost in technical details, but rather to understand the underlying principles. It brings you closer to the world of paleomagnetism and rock magnetism, regardless of whether your concept of geology revolves around moving tectonic plates, dinosaurs, or rocks. The book takes you on an entertaining journey from the global phenomena of the Earth's magnetic field down to the subatomic level of electron movements in minerals. It provides selected geological scenarios for dynamic geological processes in our Earth system, from the formation of rocks in tranquil lakes to mountain building. No mathematical formulas are required for understanding, although terms like paramagnetism, ferromagnetism, coordinate transformations, and anisotropy will be explained. The book employs vivid analogies from everyday life to make complex concepts understandable. It's a successful introduction to the fascinating world of paleomagnetism and rock magnetism in geology for interested laypeople, amateur geologists, geoscientists, and related disciplines.