James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2000

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PH2006:03

Descriptive Physical Oceanography

Townsville

26 lectures, 13 tutorials, 12 hours laboratory, 8 hours field work. Second semester.

Staff: Dr P Ridd.

This is a descriptive physical oceanography subject suitable for all students studying the marine environment. It provides a descriptive overview of the physical properties of the oceans of the world but has a special focus on the physical conditions of Australian coastal oceanography. This includes temperature and salinity signatures of water types; water, salt and heat budgets of the oceans; surface properties; and circulation of the oceans. The laboratory sessions cover instruments and methods, culminating in a research project.

Learning Objectives:

  1. an integrated introduction to the content, concepts and methods of physical oceanography;
  2. a familiarisation with the instruments and standard experimental methodology of physical oceanography and experience with data analysis and interpretation using some of the instruments.

Assessment by laboratory reports; assignment; field report; final examination.


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