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What subjects are studied in oceanography?
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Earth sciences
Geologist using a rock hammer to sample active pahoehoe lava for geochemical analysis on the Kilauea volcano, Hawaii, June 26, 2009.
Oceanography is the scientific discipline dedicated to studying all aspects of the world’s oceans and seas. It is traditionally categorized into four interrelated branches:
- Physical oceanography: Examines the properties of seawater—such as temperature, density, and pressure—as well as its movement (waves, currents, and tides) and interactions with the atmosphere.1
- Chemical oceanography: Focuses on the chemical composition of seawater and the biogeochemical cycles that influence it.1
- Marine geology: Investigates the structure, features, and evolution of ocean basins, including the seafloor’s geologic framework.1
- Marine ecology (biological oceanography): Studies the plants and animals that inhabit the marine environment, including their life cycles and food production.12
Research in these fields involves sampling marine life and water, utilizing remote sensing via satellites, and exploring the seafloor through techniques like deep-sea drilling and seismic profiling. This work is essential for predicting climate changes, managing Earth’s resources, and addressing the impact of pollutants on marine ecosystems.1