MASC 201: Introductory Oceanography

History of oceanography. Oceanography as a science. Geologic and evolutionary history of the Earth. Internal structure of the Earth, isostasy and plate tectonics. Origin and structure of the ocean basins. The climatic seasons. Shape of the Earth and location systems. Bathymetric and physiographic charts. Hydrologic cycle. Seas and oceans. Seawater – composition, physical and chemical properties. Distribution of heat in the oceans. Motion in the ocean – wind patterns, currents, waves and tides. Life in the Marine Environment. Structure and Function of Marine Ecosystems. Adaptations to the marine ecosystem. Anthropogenic impact on marine ecosystems. Environmental issues in oceanography.