Subject

XSL Content

Large-Scale Ocean Processes

General details of the subject

Mode
Face-to-face degree course
Language
English

Description and contextualization of the subject

Introduction to the physical processes both deep ocean and ocean margins. Processes which give rise to ocean circulation. Global processes (tides, wind, buoyancy forcing) and their influence on deep ocean and ocean margins.

Competencies

NameWeight
Understand the dynamical approach to physical oceanography.25.0 %
Understand the mathematical formalism of dynamical ocean models.15.0 %
Iinterpret the mathematical results from dynamical ocean models.15.0 %
Quantify these results for the ocean circulation.15.0 %
Have an appreciation of the physical interactions between the deep ocean, the atmosphere and the shelf seas and their relation to global processes.30.0 %

Study types

TypeFace-to-face hoursNon face-to-face hoursTotal hours
Lecture-based4572.5117.5
Applied classroom-based groups151530
Applied computer-based groups101020
Industrial workshop51520

Training activities

NameHoursPercentage of classroom teaching
Case analysis20.050 %
Expositive classes117.538 %
Networking20.050 %
Tutorials30.033 %

Assessment systems

NameMinimum weightingMaximum weighting
Practical tasks25.0 % 25.0 %
Written examination75.0 % 75.0 %

Learning outcomes of the subject

At the end of the Unit, the student should be able to:



1. Develop numerical and mathematical skills.

2. Have a working knowledge of mathematical models and techniques.

3. Application of mathematical methods to ocean circulation.

4. Use of MATLAB, to analyse and interpret ocean data.



Temary

SOES6005



Aims

- To provide an introduction to the dynamics of the deep ocean and ocean margins.

- To explore and quantify the processes which give rise to ocean circulation.

- To explore and quantify the links between ocean circulation and climate.



Key Skills Acquired

- Develop numerical and mathematical skills.

- Have a working knowledge of mathematical models and techniques.

- Application of mathematical methods to ocean circulation.

- Use of MATLAB to analyse and interpret ocean data.



Syllabus

The module will explore the processes which give rise to ocean circulation and how recent observations (e.g. World Ocean Circulation Experiment) are providing new insights into how the system works.



The module will include global processes (tides, wind, buoyancy forcing) and how these processes have markedly different influences on the deep ocean and on ocean margins. For example, the deep ocean is mainly governed by geostrophic flow, whilst the shelf seas are influenced strongly by frictional processes. The global ocean circulation: its causes, its measurement and its role in the climate system will be explored.



Teaching and learning methods

Formal Lectures: will provide the underlying theory of large scale ocean processes (tides, hydrographic data, ocean circulation and processes, boundary layers and processes.)

MATLAB sessions: will provide an introduction to MATLAB for analysing and interpreting ocean data.

Practical sessions: will exemplify the theory and allow you to develop your mathematical, analytical and data analysis skills.

Tutorial Support: will be available within scheduled practical classes.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.



Resources and reading list

The lecture material is summarised at blackboard.soton.ac.uk. Instructions for accessing this material will be given during the course.

XSL Content

It was not possible to load the content, please try again later. In case the problem persists contact CAU (Phone: 916014400 / E-mail: cau@ehu.eus / Website: https://lagun.ehu.eus).