AT 770 Physical Oceanography

Several aspects of physical oceanography will be covered in this course.

The main emphasis will be on the large - and mesoscale wind-driven ocean circulation, which includes western boundary currents such as the Gulf Stream and ocean eddies. In addition topics such as properties of sea water, the oceanic mixed layer, tropical air-sea interaction (El Nino/La Nina), the thermohaline circulation (-popularly known as the conveyor belt) and coastal upwelling will be discussed.

Basic knowledge of atmospheric dynamics (Ekman layers, geostrophy, Rossby waves) is expected.

Each student will be required to present two class projects.

Textbooks

Gill, A. E.: Atmosphere - Ocean Dynamics. Academic Press, 1982.
Pickard, G. L. and W. J. Emery: Descriptive Physical Oceanography. (5. ed). Pergamon, 1990.

Grading:

Time and place:

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Tommy G. Jensen      
tjensen@hawaii.edu


Last update: October 3, 1997