Handbook

This topic offers the basic knowledge needed to understand what drives the ocean currents, forms distinct water masses in the world ocean, and shapes the physical characteristics of coastal oceans and estuaries. The topic is delivered in two parts. The first part describes the regional oceanography of the Atlantic, the Pacific and Indian Oceans including polar regions in detail. The second part addresses coastal oceans and estuaries with a focus on physical dynamical interactions such as coastal upwelling that enhances biological productivity. The lectures include ample Australian examples such as coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef, the circulation and flushing of South Australian gulfs, and the seasonal nutrient upwelling in the eastern Great Australian Bight.