![Encyclopedia of the Oceans]( "Encyclopedia of the Oceans")
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About this book
Contents
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About this book
Please note: this is the UK edition of the book published as 'Oceans' in the US by University of Chicago Press.
Clearly structured in two parts, dealing with the physical nature of oceans and the evolution and distribution of marine life, it covers all the major fields of oceanographic research. Its accessible treatment offers a wealth of up-to-date information on topics ranging from oceanic ridge formation and hydrothermal vents, to the rhythm and patterns of tides, currents, and weather systems, to the diversity and complex interactions of marine communities. The impact of humankind on the oceans is also discussed. The book considers the options and looks at the sustainable use of resources and conservation of marine life. The stunning photographs illustrate new underwater research projects.
Contents
PREFACE; INTRODUCTION - EXPLORING AND UNDERSTANDING THE OCEANS; PART 1: OCEAN SYSTEMS - THE PHYSICAL NATURE OF THE OCEANS; 1. Plates on the move (the evolution of oceans); 2. Patterns and cycles (the changing face of the ocean); 3. Salt, sun, and sea-level (the nature of seawater); 4. Silent, strong, and deep (waves, tides, currents, and climate); 5. Resources for the third millenium (minerals and energy); OCEAN MAPS - BATHYMETRY AND RESOURCES; PART 2: THE LIVING OCEAN - THE EVOLUTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF MARINE LIFE; 6. Evolution and extinction (the origin of life); 7. Producers and consumers (the world of plankton); 8. Marine animals (variety and adaptation); 9. Complex communities (habitats and ecosystems); 10. Fragile environments (marine life and humankind); CONCLUSION - MANAGING AND CONSERVING THE OCEANS; Glossary of terms; Bibliography and resources; Acknowledgements; Index
Customer Reviews
Out of Print
By: Dorrik Stow
256 pages, 200 photos, 20 maps, 75 illus
Magnificent addition to the Oxford series of encyclopaedias
Although ostensibly a popular book, it is also a serious work of record backed by comprehensive reference of its sources... An important academic contribution to the history of one of the most romantic branches of nineteenth-century science and a perceptive commentary on the social and cultural background from which modern observational oceanography sprang. Richard Shelton, TLS Clearly written and beautifully illustrated, this is the perfect introduction to the seas. The Scotsman
