Unit 3: Oceans

Unit Overview

Oceans cover three-quarters of the Earth's surface, but many parts of the deep oceans have yet to be explored. Learn about the large-scale ocean circulation patterns that help to regulate temperatures and weather patterns on land, and the microscopic marine organisms that form the base of marine food webs.

Online Textbook

1. Introduction
2. Ocean Structure and Composition
3. Ocean Currents
4. Thermohaline Circulation
5. Ocean Circulation and Climate Cycles
6. Biological Activity in the Upper Ocean
7. The "Biological Pump"
8. Further Reading

Printable Online Text for This Unit (PDF)