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Introduction to the physical processes both deep ocean and ocean margins. Processes which give rise to ocean circulation. Global processes (tides, wind, buoyancy forcing) and their influence on deep ocean and ocean margins.

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Al final de la unidad el estudiante debería ser capaz de:



1. Desarrollar habilidades numéricas y matemáticas.

2. Tener un conocimiento práctico de modelos y técnicas matemáticas.

3. Aplicación de métodos matemáticos a la circulación oceánica.

4. Uso de MATLAB, para analizar e interpretar datos oceánicos.

Irakasgai-zerrenda

SOES6005



Aims

- To provide an introduction to the dynamics of the deep ocean and ocean margins.

- To explore and quantify the processes which give rise to ocean circulation.

- To explore and quantify the links between ocean circulation and climate.



Key Skills Acquired

- Develop numerical and mathematical skills.

- Have a working knowledge of mathematical models and techniques.

- Application of mathematical methods to ocean circulation.

- Use of MATLAB to analyse and interpret ocean data.



Syllabus

The module will explore the processes which give rise to ocean circulation and how recent observations (e.g. World Ocean Circulation Experiment) are providing new insights into how the system works.



The module will include global processes (tides, wind, buoyancy forcing) and how these processes have markedly different influences on the deep ocean and on ocean margins. For example, the deep ocean is mainly governed by geostrophic flow, whilst the shelf seas are influenced strongly by frictional processes. The global ocean circulation: its causes, its measurement and its role in the climate system will be explored.



Teaching and learning methods

Formal Lectures: will provide the underlying theory of large scale ocean processes (tides, hydrographic data, ocean circulation and processes, boundary layers and processes.)

MATLAB sessions: will provide an introduction to MATLAB for analysing and interpreting ocean data.

Practical sessions: will exemplify the theory and allow you to develop your mathematical, analytical and data analysis skills.

Tutorial Support: will be available within scheduled practical classes.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.



Resources and reading list

The lecture material is summarised at blackboard.soton.ac.uk. Instructions for accessing this material will be given during the course.