Two thirds of our planet is covered by oceans & seas. Over recent decades developments in ocean science have dramatically enhanced our understanding of the key role oceans play in the Earth System & how vital they are for regulating global climate. Humans depend on the oceans for many resources but at the same time their impacts on the marine systems around the world are of increasing concern. Introducing Oceanography has been written by two leading oceanographers to provide a succinct overview of the science of the study of the seas for students & for the interested adult wanting a topical guide to this enormous & complex subject. The initial chapters describe the oceans & the forces at work within them. The authors then discuss the effects of light the chemistry of the seas & the food web before surveying biological oceanography in the main oceanic regions. The final chapter looks at the methodology of ocean study. Copiously illustrated this book is intended for those whose interest in oceanography has been stimulated perhaps by media coverage of declining resources or climate change & who want to know more. Technical terms are kept to a minimum & are explained in a glossary.