This book explains the use and techniques of paleomagnetism to map the movement of major portions of the Earth's surface through time. Written for a geological audience, the initial chapters provide the basic essentials for understanding the value and significance of paleomagnetic results. The later chapters are unique in bringing together the vast amounts of available paleomagnetic data and analyses. This information is integrated with the paleogeography and tectonic movements of the blocks and placed in context with current tectonic hypotheses. A considerable proportion of the present continents are considered – that is the land areas that are now found around the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and in Asia. Also presented is an extensive catalogue of paleomagnetic results for all major continents and the displaced elements that they contain.

‘ … covers a very wide span of time and space … Rational, humorous and open minded … Rob van der Voo is a guide with whom one retains confidence for the whole journey.’

Source: The Open University Geological Society

‘It is written with talent and humour, is well illustrated and gives the present state of the art in paleomagnetism and of its use for the past history of our mobile Earth … it should be available on the shelves of all paleomagnetic laboratories.’

Source: Palaeo

‘ … the author goes on to appeal to readers that paleomagnetism provides quantitative information about tectonics.’

Source: Tectonophysics

‘I highly recommend this book to everyone interested in the phenomena of rifting and the assembly of continents.’

Source: Tectonophysics