Marine Science

Nature of the Subject

The oceans comprise over two thirds of the surface of the planet and more than half of the global population lives in coastal cities, yet many aspects of marine science remain a mystery to humans. Scientists are only beginning to delve into and understand the mostly unexplored realm of the open ocean and the deep sea. With the development of new technology and increasing international cooperation, much is being learned about interactions between marine organisms and about their habitats, about essential sea-surface to atmosphere interactions, and about geological dynamics.

The nature of marine science is multidisciplinary as it encompasses natural sciences including: biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and meteorology, as well as social sciences such as geography, economics, politics and history. El Niño, fishing rights, global warming, coral bleaching, ocean pollution, storm & tsunami preparedness and oil exploration are among the many current international issues that revolve around the oceans.

Historically, the oceans have been a source of fascination and inspiration and have played a significant role in the lives of many humans. The resources extracted from the oceans, the transport of goods across oceans and the services provided by the oceans have a huge impact on human population dynamics. Many coastal populations are dependent on the oceans as a source of food and, as stores of fossil fuels are being depleted, the harvesting of energy from the oceans is increasingly of interest. In addition, the oceans provide many essential ecological services including the production of oxygen, the absorption of the greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide, and the processing of wastes. Ocean processes also play a major role in the regulation of climate. Because of our close connection with the ocean it is essential to understand the variety of human interactions with the marine environment.

Unfortunately, many human activities are having a negative impact on the oceans. Overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, the introduction of alien species, and urban development are altering the marine ecosystems. In order to conserve the marine habitat, upon which so many rely, it is essential that global citizens have an understanding of their impact on the ocean. This is true regardless of where they are living, due to the interconnectedness between the oceans and all other ecosystems of the biosphere.

The study of marine science lends itself very well to hands-on work and consequently is easily carried out in a coastal location where there will be many opportunities for practical work both in the field and in the laboratory. In addition, topics in physical oceanography lend themselves to the use of ocean modeling and analysis of satellite imagery which may be studied anywhere. In all practical work, students are encouraged to develop an appreciation for the question, How do we know what is true? This question invites an essential of experimental sciences, verification. The technologies used in marine science make these questions especially pertinent.