Introduction to Physical Oceanography - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1563962101 ISBN 13: 9781563962103

Publisher: American Institute of Physics, 1996

Synopsis

Written by a renowned fluid dynamicist specializing in computational methods (particularly in turbulence), this introductory text addresses the subject of dynamic oceanography from a mathematical approach. The book begins with the basic equations of motion in integral form and covers such essential topics as geostropic flow, barotropic and baroclinic ocean circulations, vorticity, and the astronomical tides. Among the many appendices is one on the method of Matched Asymptotic Expansions as applied to the Gulf Stream the most modern and systematic way of looking at boundary layer problems. Problems are included at the end of each chapter.

About this title

From the Back Cover

Working at advanced levels of oceanography requires a firm grasp of the mathematical and physical underpinnings of oceanic processes. George Mellor's Introduction to Physical Oceanography provides the appropriate analytical foundation. Written for advanced undergraduate/first-year graduate students, the book focuses on the elements of fluid dynamics essential to further study and research in oceanography. Based on lecture notes for his introductory class in physical oceanography, Mellor's text provides clear descriptions of concepts and simple analytical models of oceanic processes in a systematic presentation. Specific topics include the equations of motion, scaling analysis, geostrophic flow, atmospheric and oceanic boundary layers, barotropic and baroclinic flows, ocean circulation, surface waves, tides, and vorticity concepts. The text is enhanced by numerous figures and diagrams, with appendices providing details of mathematical topics. The information provided in the Introduction to Physical Oceanography give students the background they need for further study of the oceans. Physicists, meteorologists, and engineers in other specialties will find it a useful reference on fluid dynamics relevant to oceanography.

Edition details

• Publisher: American Institute of Physics
• Publication date: 1996
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1563962101
• ISBN 13: 9781563962103
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 260
• Editor: Mellor George L.