Studying the Ocean: Past, Present, and Future
At 1.33 billion cubic km and covering roughly one third of Earth’s total surface area, the global ocean is the
largest body of water in the world. The ocean has intrigued mankind throughout history, and scientists have spent
decades observing it to unravel its mysteries. This course is designed to introduce students to the basic principles
of oceanography through theory, observations and applications from its humble beginnings using ships and Nansen
bottles, up through the advent of satellites and complex numerical models.
The first module is centered on general characteristics of the ocean, with emphasis on how the global ocean and its
properties fit into the climate system. This includes, for example, distributions and budgets temperature and salinity.
The reasons why water is so special and crucial for life are also discussed in detail. Students will complete at home
experiments to understand hydrogen bonding and the greenhouse effect.
The second module introduces theoretical physical oceanography. This includes the governing equations of motion for
fluids, and a description from small scale phenomena such waves to large scale phenomena such as oceanic gyres and
meridional overturning circulation. You will complete at home experiments to understand how winds and density play a
role in fluid motion.
The third module will entail more specialized lectures. Topics include ocean biogeochemistry, the carbon cycle, and
paleoceanography. Biophysical interactions will be introduced, which links the physical motion of module 2 with the
biogeochemical reactions of module 3. You will complete at home experiments to understand how ice cores are formed at
what scientists can learn from them.
The final module focuses on the impact of changes in the climate system on the ocean, and how numerical models can help
isolate and predict the response of the ocean to these changes. The end of the module will contain a remote interview
with a scientist, where a variety of oceanographers and marine scientists will answer questions posed by students.
Additionally students will present their final projects.
You will be exposed to a variety of STEM subjects such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, as well as gain
valuable hands-on experience such as creating and analyzing their own ice cores. In addition, students will refine
presentation, analytical reading and writing abilities. Above all, students will practice critical thinking and develop
independent research skills.
Exposure to computer programming, calculus, basic chemistry and physics will be helpful, but not necessary. These will all
be used extensively throughout the course, however introductory and supplemental material will be provided, and the level
of rigor will be adjusted to suit the class needs based on feedback from the students.