Part 1: Introduction to Oceanography

The World Ocean

Earth is often called the "Blue Planet" because oceans dominate its surface. The global ocean is a single, interconnected body of saltwater divided by continents into named basins. Understanding the ocean is fundamental to understanding Earth's climate, life, and geological processes.

361M km²

Ocean Surface Area

10,994 m

Deepest Point (Mariana)

3.5%

Average Salinity

Topics in This Part

1.1 Overview of the Oceans

The five major oceans, their characteristics, and interconnections

1.2 Ocean Basins

Structure and features of ocean basins, continental margins

1.3 History of Ocean Exploration

From ancient mariners to modern oceanography

Why Study Oceanography?

Climate Regulation

Oceans absorb ~30% of CO₂ and over 90% of excess heat from climate change

Biodiversity

Home to millions of species, from bacteria to blue whales

Resources

Food, energy, minerals, and pharmaceuticals from the sea

Transportation

~90% of global trade travels by sea

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