Oceans cover over 70% of the Earth's surface and are essential to life on this planet. And yet it is only recently that the science and technology of Oceanography has matured - indeed, astronauts walked on the surface of the Moon before scientists explored the Mid-Ocean Ridge, a great mountain range that covers close to 23% of the Earth's total surface area! Oceanography provides the basis for understanding the oceans' complexities, and an appreciation of the importance of recent discoveries (the volcanism and hydrothermal circulation within the Mid-Ocean Ridge) and improved sampling techniques (advanced remotely operated vehicle systems and satellite monitoring). It is written by expert teachers and leading researchers in each of the many aspects of Oceanography: Weather Systems; Physical Geography; Chemistry; Biology; Measurement Techniques; Economics. Oceanography is an authoritative, comprehensive, easy to read and richly illustrated guide to this vast and fascinating subject. It is essential reading for anyone interested in the oceans - crucial to our future, but as yet barely explored.