Includes bibliographical references and index.

Typical texts on igneous and metamorphic petrology are geared to either advanced or novice petrology students. This unique text offers comprehensive, up-to-date coverage of both igneous and metamorphic petrology in a single volume—and provides the quantitative and technical background required to critically evaluate igneous and metamorphic phenomena in a way that students at all levels can understand. The goal throughout is for students to be able to apply the techniques—and enjoy the insights of the results—rather than tinker with theory and develop everything from first principles. • A balanced presentation limits the theory to the extent that students can practice it on real occurrences—without such excessive detail that the course becomes more like chemistry than geology.
• A survey of actual occurrences of igneous and metamorphic rocks, and processes that produce them, is provided. This section is often greatly condensed in most other texts, but it is the most interesting and dynamic aspect of petrology.
• A techniques/occurrences approach for both igneous and metamorphic rocks that first presents the techniques, then applies them to assess a field area, and then expands the techniques as necessary if the field examples call for it.
• A comprehensive section on petrogenesis, particularly igneous petrogenesis, covers important igneous petrogenetic associations
• An accessible approach to mathematics, chemistry, and physics requires only a working knowledge of algebra; calculus is occasionally discussed, but is not required. Chemical and physical principles are presented early on, and at a level that is comprehensible and accessible.
• Worked examples, problems, and computer-related problems, found at the end of many chapters, carefully integrate a number of problems and computer programs
• Spreadsheets are used extensively in worked examples and problems. Spreadsheets, data files, and other programs
• Approximately 350 figures and tables are provided.