ESCI 253 - Oceanography

The ocean covers 71% of our planet’s surface and creates the habitable environment we know on Earth. How do the oceans work? And what role did they play in the advent of life, the growth and decay of ice sheets, the creation of fossil fuels, and the history of human societies? This course explores the geology, chemistry, physics, biology, and human dimensions of the oceans throughout Earth’s history. From ancient acid seas to the alkaline modern ocean, we explore topics including the architecture of the seafloor, major and trace element chemistry, surface and deep ocean circulation, coastal processes, and life ranging from microbes to megafauna. In lab, students grapple with vast oceanographic datasets and learn to make primary oceanographic measurements. Along the way we consider the oceanic legacy of colonialism, marine resource extraction, controversial efforts to mitigate climate change via ocean engineering, and examples of just ocean stewardship.

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 153  or permission of the instructor.

Two 75-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.

Not offered in 2023/24.

Course Format: CLS