Princeton Nature

How the Ocean Works: An Introduction to Oceanography

Paperback

Price:
$79.00/£65.00
ISBN:
Published:
Apr 21, 2008
2008
Pages:
344
Size:
7 x 10 in.
Illus:
148 color illus. 7 tables.
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The world’s oceans account for roughly 71 percent of the planet’s surface and 99 percent of its livable volume. Any study of this huge habitat requires a solid foundation in the principles that underlie marine biology and physical and chemical oceanography, yet until now undergraduate textbooks have largely presented compilations of facts rather than explanations of principles. How the Ocean Works fills this gap, providing a concise and accessible college-level introduction to marine science that is also ideal for general readers.


How are winds and currents driven? What is the dilemma of the two-layered ocean? Mark Denny explains key concepts like these in rich and fascinating detail. He explores early scientific knowledge of oceans, photosynthesis, trophic interactions and energy flow, and the impacts of human activities on marine and atmospheric systems. Focusing each chapter on a major topic and carefully explaining the principles and theory involved, Denny gives readers the conceptual building blocks needed to develop a coherent picture of the living ocean. How the Ocean Works is an indispensable resource that teaches readers how to think about the ocean—its biology, mechanics, and conservation.


  • Provides a concise, up-to-date introduction to marine science

  • Develops the conceptual basis needed to understand how the ocean works

  • Explains fundamental principles and theory

  • Includes color illustrations and informative diagrams

  • Serves as a college textbook and a reference for general readers


Awards and Recognition

  • Honorable Mention for the 2008 PROSE Award in Earth Sciences, Association of American Publishers