A study of the special processes affecting meteorological analysis and forecasting in the tropics, including satellite imagery analysis, with particular emphasis on hurricane or typhoon prediction, creation, movement and decay. Different global change model scenarios are presented and discussed for future climate - Earth Watch. Also studied are present day climate topics, such as the Ozone Hole, Greenhouse Effect and El Nino. A study of patterns and concepts of biological production in the ocean. Emphasis is on the integration of the biological and physical environment.
Laboratory includes student planned studies and conceptual exercises.
All aspects of the course emphasize the use of various knowledge areas to solve a problem. Geomorphology, structure, petrology, sedimentation, stratigraphy, origin and development of ocean basins and margins are examined in light of theory of plate tectonics. Practical studies of the Chesapeake Bay are part of the laboratory work. The modern approach to the ocean as a chemical system. Laboratory instruction emphasizes principles with appropriate methods.