Introduction to Physical Oceanography [Paperback]

Written by a renowned fluid dynamicist specializing in computational methods (particularly in turbulence), this introductory text addresses the subject of dynamic oceanography from a mathematical approach. The book begins with the basic equations of motion in integral form and covers such essential topics as geostropic flow, barotropic and baroclinic ocean circulations, vorticity, and the astronomical tides. Among the many appendices is one on the method of Matched Asymptotic Expansions as applied to the Gulf Stream the most modern and systematic way of looking at boundary layer problems. Problems are included at the end of each chapter.Preface; Acknowledgments; 1. The Oceans; 2. Basic Equations; 3. Boundary Conditions at the Air-Sea Interface; 4. Geostrophic Flow; 5. Planetary Boundary Layers; 6. Barotropic Ocean Circulation; 7. Baroclinic Ocean Flows; 8. General Circulation of a Baroclinic Ocean with Bottom Topography; 9. Surface Gravity Waves; 10. Inertial Motions; 11. Astronomical Tides; 12. Vorticity; Appendices; References; Recommended Books; IndexWritten by a renowned fluid dynamicist specializing in computational methods (particularly in turbulence), this introductory text addresses the subject of dynamic oceanography from a mathematical approach, beginning with the basic equations of motion in integral form and covering geostropic flow, barotropic and baroclinic ocean circulations, vorticity, and the astronomical tides.