Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit covers an introduction to the physics of the ocean; physical properties of sea water; global distribution of temperature and salinity; dynamics governing motion in the ocean; barotropic and baroclinic ocean circulation; heat and salt budgets; water mass formation; major ocean biogeochemical cycles; the dynamics of coastal primary to secondary biological production; and the interaction of ocean processes with benthic biological communities.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2AlbanyFace to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop an appreciation for the basic laws of physics that describe fluid motion in the ocean; (2) understand the major driving forces of ocean circulation; (3) understand how the ocean's physical processes influence its biological characteristics; and (4) analyse and interpret physical and biological oceanographic datasets in real world applications.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) quizzes; (2) assignments; and (3) examinations. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Ryan Lowe
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
one Unit(s) SCIE2204 Marine Systems
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
laboratories: 2 hours per week from week 2
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.