In a comprehensive overview of the past 45 years of sea floor exploration, this fascinating book by a seasoned explorer of the abyss deals with numerous topics, from the structure of subduction zones to the mineralogical composition of sea-floor rocks.

The author participated in 38 sea going expeditions including the first manned-submersible project to explore the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the past 45 years of sea floor exploration. It summarizes the mineralogical and petrological composition of sea floor rocks, ocean floor volcanism in relation to the geological setting and the discovery of hydrothermal activity. In addition to learning about various scientific missions and their objectives, the reader is introduced to rift zones where the sea floor is being created, as well as to fracture zones, intraplate volcanoes, and the structural setting of subduction zones

Describes the discoveries and progress in deep ocean earth science Summary of 45 years research on mid-ocean ridges, hotspots, fracture zones and hydrothermal systems Provides a historical perspective on sea floor exploration including the first manned-submersible project Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Inhalt
Introduction.- The birth of planet Earth.- Man's penetration into the abysses.- Sea floor rocks.- Earth's mantle melting and volcanism.- Hydrothermal activity and metalliferous deposits.- Oceanic ridges: Sea floor creation.- Fracture zones.- Voyage to Antarctica region.- Hotspots.- Subduction zones.