John Ramsay conducted important research into the structural history of metamorphic rocks and the theoretical implications of rock deformation. His field studies of Moine–Lewisian rocks in northwest Scotland, the Moodies and Swaziland systems in eastern Transvaal and the structural design of the western Alps showed how complex tectonic histories can be deciphered by geometrically controlled analysis of the relationship between small and large-scale features. They established him as one of the foremost structural geologists in the world today. The theoretical aspects of his work include, in particular, investigations into the geometry and mechanism of folds and the restoration of successions to their unfolded state. This research led to a new understanding of the effects of multiphase plastic deformation. His book on the folding and fracturing of rocks is the most authoritative work yet published on tectonic analysis.
Professor John Ramsay CBE FRS died on 12 January 2021.
Subject groups
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Earth and Environmental Sciences
Geology
