A1.19

Theoretical Geophysics | Part II, 2003

(i) Explain the concepts of: traction on an element of surface; the stress tensor; the strain tensor in an elastic medium. Derive a relationship between the two tensors for a linear isotropic elastic medium, stating clearly any assumption you need to make.

(ii) State what is meant by an SH\mathrm{SH} wave in a homogeneous isotropic elastic medium. An SH wave in a medium with shear modulus μ\mu and density ρ\rho is incident at angle θ\theta on an interface with a medium with shear modulus μ\mu^{\prime} and density ρ\rho^{\prime}. Evaluate the form and amplitude of the reflected wave and transmitted wave. Comment on the case csinθ/c>1c^{\prime} \sin \theta / c>1, where c2=μ/ρc^{2}=\mu / \rho and (c)2=μ/ρ\left(c^{\prime}\right)^{2}=\mu^{\prime} / \rho^{\prime}.

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