This introduction to the study of the world's oceans provides a straightforward and comprehensive presentation of the subject. It covers fundamental topics such as the origins of marine life, the physical properties of the oceans, and the chemistry of water. The book approaches marine biology from an environmental perspective rather than a taxomonic one. This edition examines human activities that have an effect on the environment by assessing the problem of marine pollution, including specific hazards such as plastics, petroleum, sewage, radioactive waste, halo-generated hydrocarbons, and mercury. Also featured are Topex/Poseidon Satellite images which provide world ocean views of water vapour, wind speed, dynamic topography, and wave height.
