LESSON 1-THE SEA SURFACE
(SUMMARY The surface of the sea varies much like that of the land. It can be
smooth, rough or ice covered. Its state is governed to a great extent by the
atmosphere with which it interfaces. The wind is the primary controller of the
sea state (wave action) and the circulation pattern within the oceans (the major
ocean currents). The air and seawater temperature differences control the
evaporation and condensation processes, while the air temperatures control the
formation of sea ice to a large extent).
OVERVIEW
Recognize the difference in ocean waves. Define fetch
and Differentiate between sea ice and land
ice.
OUTLINE
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Surf
(Define surf, and recognize the factors that
affect it).
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Nearshore
circulation (Recognize and explain the nearshore circulation system).
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Man is in a unique position with regard to Earth’s
atmosphere and the oceans. He lives at the bottom
of one and at the top of the other. The atmosphere is an ocean of air, and the
seas, an ocean of water. In
many respects, the atmosphere and the oceans are similar. For example,
there are air currents and ocean currents,
atmospheric waves (long and short) and ocean waves, and the
land (terrain) beneath the sea is much like that beneath the atmosphere.
Since the oceans of air and water interface and each
has a definite impact on the other, let’s begin
at the point of interface (the surface) and work down.
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