Revised and updated, this basic text introduces non-science majors to the physical, chemical, geological and biological aspects of oceanic sciences. This seventh edition incorporates advances in our understanding of Earth and its oceans, taking advantage of new modes of electronic communication, navigation, and undersea imaging to bring to light the unique nature of Earth and its ocean system, and using satellite exploration of the Solar System to compare Earth to its planetary neighbours. Adopting a process-oriented approach, this edition examines the ocean as part of the larger Earth system while offering an even stronger environmental focus than before.