Introduction to Marine Science

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Understand biological processes operating in the ocean, including ecosystem structure and the production and cycling of organic matter.
• Analyse and interpret datasets of biological, chemical, physical and geological components of marine systems.
• Understand the physical processes of the ocean and how these control the movement of water, heat and other properties.
• Demonstrate awareness and use of methods to sample and interrogate the biological, chemical, physical and geological components and characteristics of marine systems.
• Understand the basic concepts used in chemical oceanography and how these influence the composition of seawater.
• Understand the geological evolution of the ocean basins, sedimentary processes in the coastal and marine environment.
• Apply knowledge and understanding to recognise how the multiple components of marine systems interact to determine the role of the oceans in the wider Earth system.

The module provides an introduction to the biological, chemical, physical and geological characteristics and processes of marine systems and the interactions between these components. The module content is structured around these 4 components, specific topics covered within these including: A (Biological): general ecological principles relating to the ocean, including factors influencing the production and fate of organic matter, components of marine ecosystems and foodwebs; B (Chemical): the state and evolution of seawater composition, including inputs, outputs and transformations; C (Physical): the physical properties of sea water and their distribution in the global ocean, tidal and atmospheric forcing of the ocean, wind-driven ocean circulation, the thermohaline circulation and the role of the ocean in climate variability and change. D (Geological): plate tectonics and large-scale Earth processes. Sedimentology and sedimentary processes. Techniques for observing the ocean basins and sub-seafloor Earth structure. An emphasis is based throughout on how the different components interact to determine how the oceans contribute to and in many cases dominate the functioning of the whole Earth system.

Formal Lectures (70 x 1 hour): Will provide an introduction to the theory underlying biological, chemical, physical and geological processes in the marine environment. Each lecture systematically covers the main concepts and topics by the use of PowerPoint presentations, supported by online materials. The lecturers' own research experience in these fields is incorporated where possible. Appropriate references to parts of course textbooks and introductory journal references are provided within each lecture. Practical Sessions (3 x 3 hour): Practicals will introduce basic techniques for the measurement of biological and chemical components of marine systems and methods for analysis of marine datasets for understanding geological processes. Tutorials (12 x 1 hour): tutorials will cover a range of topics including mathematical notation and methods of physical and chemical oceanography and interpretation of geophysical data. Boat Practicals: A demonstration will be given of biological, chemical, physical and geological sampling and measurement techniques on the research vessel as a component of the associated key skills modules. Data will be analysed within the formative and summative assessments. Blackboard material: All the material will be summarised at www.blackboard.soton.ac.uk. Instructions for accessing this material will be given during the course. Formative Assessment: Problems and answers covering all topic areas will be provided throughout the module to enhance individual study to reinforce the concepts taught in the lectures. A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.