Research: Theoretical Geophysics, Geochemistry, and Petrology

I'm an applied mathematician interested in a broad range of Earth science problems. Current research includes:

Mantle Geochemistry

I create simple models of mantle processes in order to understand the isotopic systematics of oceanic basalts. Such models help constrain time scales for mantle convection, as well as aspects of the melting and melt migration processes that occur in the Earth's mantle.

The Dynamics of Mantle Plumes

Recent stratigraphical data have suggested that rapid periods of uplift and subsidence have occurred in sedimentary basins in the North Sea that might be related to "pulsing" of the nearby Icelandic mantle plume. I have developed a fluid dynamical model of a mantle plume in order to explain this rapid uplift and subsidence and to put constraints on the speed of mantle flow in the region.

Quantitative Analysis of Rock Textures

The spatial arrangement of grains in a rock can potentially provide a great deal of information about a rock's history and mechanical properties. I've been developing statistical techniques for quantifying the spatial distribution of grains, with a particular focus on understanding the packing of crystals in magma chambers.


Older Publications by Dr John Rudge


Publications: 2006-Present

Last updated on 21-Sep-10 10:11