Ocean Science

The oceans dominate our planet, influencing every aspect of Earth’s environment. This course reviews the physical science, geology, and biology of the oceans emphasizing a systemic approach. Week one reviews the basic geography and geology of the Earth’s oceans and the forces that shape and propel ocean waters. Week two looks at the water in the ocean, its chemistry, and what is dissolved in it. The mysteries of the ocean depths are explored in week three, with investigations of how humans explore the world beneath the ocean surface. Week four examines the effect of Earth’s oceans on climate and on the land. In week five, learners examine ocean life and investigate the effects of ocean environments on the living things within the water.